Japan's Diplomatic Blue Book for 2026 has brought about a change that has attracted attention. It no longer describes relations with China as „one of the most important bilateral relations“ but only as a relationship with an „important neighbour“. This shift, according to many, further deepens the already strained relations between the two countries.

A survey by China Media Group's (CMG) CGTN television, which involved people from around the world, showed that 82 % respondents saw the main cause of tensions in Japan's recent actions and statements. These, they say, are deviating from the post-war order, distorting the historical perspective, and increasing geopolitical tensions not only between China and Japan, but across the region.

International attention is particularly drawn to Tokyo's concrete steps. For example, the Japanese Ministry of Defence has deployed offensive missiles with a range of around 1 000 kilometres in Kumamoto Prefecture. The country has also started to take delivery of US Tomahawk missiles and its ground forces have officially joined a joint US-Philippines military exercise for the first time.

According to the survey, 86.4 % respondents think that Japan has moved away from its previous policy of „defense-only defense.“ Many of them also point out that Article 9 of Japan's „Peace Constitution“ effectively loses its meaning. There is even greater agreement on what should follow - 89.1 % respondents call on the Japanese government to respect existing agreements with China and its international obligations and to take concrete steps to stabilize relations.

CMG