Japan's Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi addressed concerns regarding Japan's military buildup during the Shangri-La Dialogue held in Singapore. On the last day of the summit, he refuted China's claims that Japan is engaging in a 'new militarism,' emphasizing that Japan's defense policies are aimed at addressing new challenges and contributing to regional peace. Koizumi highlighted the significant military expansion and lack of transparency from China, which he described as a serious concern for both Japan and the international community. He pointed out that Japan's defense spending is increasing, moving closer to the target of 2% of its GDP, while also relaxing restrictions on lethal weapons exports. Koizumi's remarks came amid heightened tensions between Japan and China, particularly following Japan's Prime Minister Takaichi's recent defense initiatives since taking office in October 2025. These initiatives include increased defense spending, expanded joint military exercises with allies such as the United States, the Philippines, and Australia, and a push to revise Japan's pacifist constitution. The defense minister's comments were intended to reassure neighboring countries, many of which have historical grievances stemming from Japan's actions during World War II. During the summit, Koizumi expressed disappointment that he could not meet with his Chinese counterpart, who skipped the event. He reiterated Japan's commitment to maintaining open lines of communication with China, stating that the 'door is always open' for dialogue. This statement reflects Japan's desire to balance its defense strategies with diplomatic efforts to ease regional tensions. The backdrop of these discussions includes China's rapid military expansion and increased defense spending, which have raised alarms in Japan and among its allies. Koizumi's speech aimed to clarify Japan's strategic intentions, asserting that Japan's defense policies are not aimed at any specific country but are a response to the changing security landscape in the region. The ongoing territorial disputes in the maritime domain, particularly involving China, further complicate the security dynamics in the Indo-Pacific region.