"China's Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Guo Jiakun, rejected criticism from Japan over its military spending on Tuesday, insisting that Tokyo has 'no right to comment' on Beijing’s defence expenditure, speaking at a regular press briefing. Guo was responding to remarks by Japanese Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi, who claimed that China’s military budget had increased sevenfold over the past two decades. "Japan's baseless accusations and malicious smears against China's legitimate national defence development are despicable and reprehensible. On issues of peace and security, China has the best track record among major powers worldwide," Guo said. “As a country with a history of aggression, Japan has no right to comment on China's defense expenditure.” "The growth of China's defence budget is both reasonable and lawful, serving both the need to address security challenges and safeguard legitimate national interests, as well as to better fulfil the international responsibilities and obligations of a major country,” he added. The remarks come amid renewed diplomatic friction between Beijing and Tokyo. On Monday, Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi reiterated Tokyo’s position on Taiwan during a parliamentary session, citing the 1972 Joint Statement that normalised diplomatic relations between Japan and China. Motegi argued that the Taiwan issue should be resolved 'peacefully through dialogue'. Beijing rejected that interpretation, accusing Japan of selectively quoting the agreement and attempting to “drag its feet and create obstacles on critical issues,” while “confusing the public and evading responsibility.” Guo also addressed reports that Chinese students planning to study in Japan through government-funded or exchange programmes have faced cancellations or delays. “The deteriorating security situation and study environment have heightened safety risks for Chinese nationals in Japan,” he said. During the same briefing, Guo responded to a range of other international issues, including comments by US President Donald Trump urging Chinese President Xi Jinping to release Hong Kong media figure Jimmy Lai, as well as Taiwan’s assertion that its relationship with Honduras is built on 'trust and prosperity'."