FT: Xi Jinping raised tone during Japan discussion with Trump



05/25/2026 10:41 AM


In a meeting with Donald Trump in Beijing, Chinese President Xi Jinping strongly condemned Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi for her country's remilitarization, reported the Financial Times (FT), referencing sources.



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As per the publication's sources, during a conversation about Japan, the Chinese leader unexpectedly elevated his voice, catching American officials off guard. This issue had not been brought up in their discussions with their Chinese counterparts prior to the summit.

In reply, the American president indicated that Tokyo needs to adopt a firmer security posture because of the increasing danger from North Korea. Officials did not clarify whether Donald Trump referenced China in that context as well.

On May 22, the Chinese Foreign Ministry revealed that Japan plans to raise its military expenditures by 9.7% in 2025. It is observed that its defense budget has been rising for 14 straight years, and "Japanese nationalist factions persist in calling for higher defense expenditures." The FT also references expert views indicating that Tokyo is boosting its military capabilities in reaction to Beijing's defense strategies.

As reported by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), China, the second-largest military spender globally, raised its defense budget by 7.4% last year, totaling $336 billion. China has raised its military expenditures for the 31st year in a row. On the other hand, Japan invested $62 billion.

source: ft.com

 


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