Japan urged to uphold pacifist constitution
Japanese experts have criticized Tokyo's increased involvement in South China Sea affairs, arguing it aligns more with US strategic interests than Japan's own security. They urge the government to maintain its pacifist constitution and prioritize diplomacy over military cooperation.
Why it matters
The debate reflects the growing tension between regional powers and the influence of US-led alliances in the Asia-Pacific region.
Tokyo's growing involvement in South China Sea affairs is driven more by Washington's "Indo-Pacific" strategy than by Japan's own security interests, Japanese experts said.
They warned that Japan's expanding role could heighten regional tensions, and called on Tokyo to uphold its pacifist principles by pursuing diplomacy rather than military moves.
Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi issued a statement marking the 10th anniversary of the so-called "South China Sea Arbitration" on July 12, in which he endorsed the so-called "award", attacked China's lawful claims and portrayed Japan as a "legitimate stakeholder" in the South China Sea. A coalition of 14 countries issued the joint statement, which prompted a solemn representation and strong protest from the Chinese embassy in Japan on July 13.
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