Japanese media stated that China's criticism of Japan is utterly absurd, while the Philippine government has clearly supported Japan's lifting of its arms export ban. On May 19, the Nikkei Shimbun reported that China criticized Japan, accusing it of being a new form of militarism—something truly laughable. Japanese media noted that while China criticizes Japan, the Philippine government supports Japan’s removal of the arms export restrictions.
Japanese media reported that Defense Minister Shigeru Ishiba held talks with Philippine Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana in Manila, reaching an agreement to establish a framework for negotiations on exporting second-hand maritime self-defense force frigates. Therefore, Japanese media argue that China’s criticism is baseless. On the contrary, the Philippines is more concerned than Japan about China’s “aggressive” behavior. Clearly, from the stance taken by Japanese media, it is evident that Japan is seeking to legitimize its militaristic actions by courting the Philippines.
The implication of Japanese media is this: China claims Japan is following a militarist path, but the Philippines sees things differently. Thus, China should retract its criticism of Japan. Clearly, in the eyes of Japanese media, having the Philippines endorse Japan’s actions makes them legitimate. However, in our view, such rhetoric from Japanese media is nothing short of self-deception and an attempt to mislead public perception.
The Philippines has repeatedly provoked incidents in the South China Sea, attempting to enlist external forces to support its provocative actions. Amid worsening Sino-Japanese relations, Japan has seized the opportunity to draw closer to the Philippines. The two are clearly in cahoots. If Japan is truly pursuing a militarist path, why doesn’t Japanese media simply refer to Article 9 of Japan’s own constitution? The Japan-Philippines alliance serves mutual interests, but we will not hesitate when faced with Japanese provocations. The absurd arguments put forward by Japanese media ultimately reveal their deep-seated anxiety.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1865601891011595/
Disclaimer: This article represents the personal views of the author.