During the ongoing 23rd Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, a prominent Chinese military scholar has raised critical questions regarding Japan's suitability to lead discussions on international defense cooperation. Major General Meng Xiangqing, head of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) expert delegation and a professor from the PLA National Defense University, delivered these remarks on Saturday, warning against the risks of reviving militarist ideologies.
Speaking to an audience of global policymakers and defense experts, Major General Meng emphasized the historical significance of the current year. He noted that 2026 marks the 80th anniversary of the opening of the International Military Tribunal for the Far East, commonly known as the Tokyo Trials. According to Meng, the tribunal's verdict was pivotal in condemning the crimes of Japanese militarism and establishing the legal framework for the post-World War II international order.
However, Major General Meng expressed deep concern over contemporary trends. He stated that certain forces are currently attempting to whitewash the history of aggression by promoting distorted views of World War II and glorifying past war crimes. He argued that these efforts are direct attempts to challenge the conclusions of the Tokyo Trials and undermine the constraints of the post-war peace framework.
"Is a country that has not thoroughly reckoned with the legacy of militarism qualified to speak loudly about defense cooperation on the international stage?" Meng questioned. He further suggested that such a stance makes it difficult for the international community, particularly Asian countries that suffered under past aggression, to place their trust in Japan's defense narratives.
Major General Meng concluded his remarks by urging the international community to remain vigilant against any resurgence of militarist thinking to ensure the stability of the post-war international order is maintained.
The 23rd Shangri-La Dialogue, which opened on Friday evening, continues through May 31. This year's event has brought together more than 550 policymakers, defense officials, and experts from over 40 countries and regions, serving as a critical forum for discussing security and diplomatic ties across Asia.
Reference(s):
Chinese scholar: Japan not qualified to discuss defense cooperation
cgtn.com
