“Cooperation between countries… must not target or infringe upon the interests of third parties, nor should it serve as an excuse for creating exclusive groups or inciting conflict,” stated Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun during a news conference.
The advancing partnership between India and Japan has garnered significant attention as both nations strive to establish more resilient supply chains for critical minerals and technology amid escalating geopolitical tensions in the Indo-Pacific region.
These comments followed the announcement by India and Japan of a substantial enhancement in defense, technology, and economic security collaboration at their 16th annual summit in New Delhi. The two nations agreed to their first joint defense co-development initiative, focusing on a naval communications system, and laid out a shared roadmap for economic security.
New Delhi and Tokyo also introduced collaborations in artificial intelligence, energy, critical minerals, and next-generation mobility, while committing to bolster supply chain resilience in key sectors like semiconductors and advanced materials.
The parties reaffirmed their dedication to a free, open, and rules-based Indo-Pacific.
Beijing’s warning also arises amidst heightened tensions in China-Japan relations. Strains have increased following Takaichi’s remarks last year regarding a potential Chinese attack on Taiwan, which she described as an “existential threat” to Japan, potentially warranting a military response. In response, China imposed restrictions on dual-use exports to Japan, including materials associated with rare earths and defense technologies.
