Japan allows export of lethal weapons after 50 years of veto

Japan allows exports of lethal weapons after 50 years of veto Japan Ground Self-Defense Force/AFP Japan approved this Tuesday (21) a review of export rules for the defense sector that ends historic restrictions on the sale of lethal weapons abroad. With the new law, the country opens the way for exports of fighter jets, missiles and warships. 📱Download the g1 app to see news in real time and for free “Today, no country can protect its own peace and security alone. Therefore, partners are needed that support each other also in terms of defense equipment,” said Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi in a publication on X. According to Tokyo, the military reinforcement aims to deter threats from neighboring China, including around islands in the East China Sea close to Taiwan. The measure represents a significant change in relation to the pacifist principles that shaped post-war Japanese security policy. Takaichi sees the strengthening of the national armaments industry as an engine of economic growth and seeks to use legislation to boost the weapons sector and deepen ties with defense partners. Follow live g1 coverage of the war between the US and Iran Still, she emphasized that Japan’s “core principles” and “history” as a pacifist nation remain unchanged. See the videos that are trending on g1 New policy eliminates restrictions Previously, Japanese defense exports were largely limited to five categories: rescue, transportation, surveillance, warning and mine sweeping equipment. Japan previously exported ammunition and military supplies to boost its economy, especially during the Korean War in the 1950s, but adopted a conditional ban on arms exports in 1967. A full ban followed in 1976. Japan’s Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi Kiyoshi Ota/Pool Photo via AP, File The revised guidelines eliminate these categories and allow any military equipment to be exported, subject to government screening and controls on transfers to third parties countries. Japan will only export weapons to countries that commit to using the equipment in accordance with the United Nations Charter. “There is absolutely no change in our commitment to the path and fundamental principles we have followed as a peace-loving nation for more than 80 years since the war,” Takaichi said. “With the new system, we will strategically promote equipment transfers, while at the same time making even more rigorous and cautious assessments regarding their permission,” said the prime minister. Japan increases military spending The move was criticized by China, which said it was “seriously” concerned and vowed to oppose what it called Tokyo’s “reckless” militarization. “The international community, including China, will remain highly vigilant and firmly resist Japan’s new reckless militarization,” said Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun. On the other hand, the measure was well received by Japan’s partners, including Australia, and aroused interest in Southeast Asia and Europe. Supporters say the move will help integrate Japan into global defense supply chains and bolster national security amid rising regional tensions, including with China. Japan has gradually increased its military spending in recent years to 2% of gross domestic product (GDP), with further increases expected under the Takaichi government. Critics argue the move could erode the country’s historic commitment to pacifism.

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