Chinese Defense Ministry spokesman Wu Qian criticized Japanese Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru's proposal for an "Asian version of NATO" on October 15.

He accused Japan of ignoring facts, exaggerating the non-existent "Chinese threat," and trying to divert the international community's attention from Japan's military buildup.   

Wu urged Japan to “refrain from building exclusive military alliances and small groups, refrain from military and security actions, and contribute to the peace and stability of the region.” 

He added, “Japan has greatly expanded its armed forces in recent years, beyond the constraints of its peace constitution and its policy of exclusively defending itself. This has alarmed its Asian neighbors and the international community.”   

In addition, Wu said the Quad framework with Japan, the United States, Australia, and India is “a political tool for the U.S. to restrain China and maintain its hegemony.”

He expressed firm opposition to the creation of a block that stirs conflict under the pretext of countering China.