Context
The Japan Defense White Paper 2011, released on Tuesday, condemned the defense buildup by China, saying: “Given the modernization of China’s naval and air forces in recent years, its sphere of influence is likely to grow beyond its neighboring waters.”
The report, endorsed by the cabinet of Japan’s Prime Minister Naoto Kan, described China’s approach towards maritime territorial disputes with neighboring countries as “assertive”. Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Ma Zhaoxu said Beijing was very disappointed with the white paper because it encompasses irresponsible remarks about China’s defense construction.
