China's Ministry of National Defense has sharply criticized Japan for allocating 13.1 billion yen ($84 million) to programs allegedly promoting pro-Japan narratives in the Taiwan region. Spokesperson Jiang Bin accused Tokyo of reviving historical colonial-era tactics to manipulate cultural identity during a press briefing on November 27, 2025.
Jiang emphasized that Japan's current efforts employ subtler methods compared to its 20th-century 'Japanization' campaign, targeting youth through cultural initiatives that obscure wartime history. 'These actions aim to sever Taiwan residents' connection to their national identity and whitewash Japan's aggressive past,' he stated.
The spokesperson called for vigilance across the Taiwan Strait against what he described as political manipulation, urging unity to preserve historical truth. The remarks come amid heightened regional tensions, with Beijing consistently opposing external interference in cross-strait affairs.
