China's intentions need to be closely monitored: Japan's defense minister

Tokyo, Ta. Thursday, June 25, 2020

China is currently trying to confront its neighbors. Meanwhile, Japanese Defense Minister Taro Kono has made a big statement. He said in a conversation with foreign media that China's military capabilities need to keep a close eye on its intentions across Asia.

"We need to raise awareness about what is happening around Japan," he said, referring to his decision to identify the submarine spotted in Japanese waters just two days ago as a Chinese submarine. He also mentioned China's current disputes with the South China Sea, Hong Kong and India.

"We need to focus not only on China's capabilities but also on its intentions," he said. Earlier on Thursday, he announced that Japan would cancel the purchase of a ballistic missile defense system built by Lockheed Martin.