Core Viewpoint - Japan's recent 2025 Defense White Paper portrays China as an unprecedented strategic challenge, distorting facts and misleading public opinion, which poses significant challenges to peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region [1][2][3] Group 1: Japan's Military Policy - The Japanese government is accused of using the narrative of surrounding threats to justify military expansion and increased defense budgets, which contradicts its pacifist constitution and defensive principles [1][2] - Japan's military activities and alliances are framed as a response to perceived threats from China, despite China's commitment to peaceful development and defensive military policies [2][3] Group 2: Taiwan Issue - The Taiwan issue is highlighted as a core interest of China, with Japan's interference seen as a violation of China's sovereignty and a distortion of historical facts regarding Japan's colonial rule over Taiwan [3] - Japan's actions regarding Taiwan, including statements that undermine the One China principle, are viewed as attempts to gain geopolitical advantages and further military ambitions [2][3] Group 3: Historical Context - The article emphasizes Japan's historical responsibilities regarding its past militarism and colonialism, urging Japan to reflect on its history rather than manipulate narratives for political gain [3] - The year 2025 marks significant anniversaries related to the end of World War II and Taiwan's return to China, underscoring the importance of historical context in current geopolitical discussions [3]

Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes the importance of Japan reflecting on its historical actions during World War II and acknowledges the ongoing issues related to its militaristic past, particularly in relation to its neighbors and international relations [1][2]. Group 1 - The Chinese government highlights Japan's historical militarism and the atrocities committed during World War II, which have caused significant suffering to China and other Asian countries [1]. - It is stated that a correct understanding and treatment of history is crucial for Japan's reintegration into the international community and for developing relations with neighboring countries [1]. - The article points out that Japan continues to exhibit tendencies to glorify its militaristic past, including issues surrounding the "comfort women" and visits by politicians to the Yasukuni Shrine, which honors war criminals [1]. Group 2 - The article calls for Japan to deeply reflect on its historical responsibilities and to sever ties with any actions that glorify its invasion history [2]. - It urges Japan to adopt a responsible attitude towards history, the people, and the future, and to commit to a path of peaceful development to regain trust from Asian neighbors and the international community [2].