China backs Russia’s remarks on Japan and the UN Charter

Wednesday 19 August 2026 - 16:20

By: Azzat Manal

China backs Russia’s remarks on Japan and the UN Charter

China has voiced support for remarks by Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov concerning Japan’s obligations under the United Nations Charter, adding another layer to the diplomatic tensions surrounding Japan’s security policy and its historical role in World War II.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said Beijing supports Lavrov’s recent comments, in which the Russian foreign minister referred to provisions of the UN Charter concerning countries that were considered enemies of signatories during the Second World War.

Lavrov recently said he regularly carries a copy of the UN Charter and referred specifically to Article 107. The provision addresses measures taken by governments against states that were enemy states during World War II and preserves the legal status of certain actions undertaken in the context of the conflict.

Commenting on the Russian minister’s remarks, Lin Jian said China supported the position and emphasized the importance Beijing attaches to provisions concerning former enemy states.

According to the Chinese Foreign Ministry, these clauses remain part of the historical framework of the UN Charter. Beijing argues that recalling their meaning is significant for preserving the outcome of the war against Japanese aggression and preventing what it describes as a revival of Japanese militarism.

The comments come as Japan has been expanding its defense capabilities and reassessing its security strategy in response to a changing regional environment. Tokyo has increased defense spending, strengthened military cooperation with partners and adopted a more proactive approach to national security.

Japan’s postwar security policy has long been shaped by its pacifist constitution, particularly Article 9, which renounces war as a sovereign right and limits the country’s military role to self-defense. In recent years, however, Japanese governments have interpreted these restrictions more broadly while seeking greater capabilities to respond to potential threats.

China and Russia have both expressed concern over Japan’s military modernization and closer security cooperation with the United States and other partners in the Asia-Pacific region.

The reference to Article 107 also carries historical significance. The provision was drafted in the aftermath of World War II, when the international community was establishing a new security and diplomatic order. Although its practical relevance has been debated over the decades, it remains part of the text of the UN Charter.

Beijing’s endorsement of Lavrov’s remarks reflects the broader convergence between Chinese and Russian positions on Japan’s evolving defense policy. Both countries have repeatedly urged Tokyo to take greater account of the historical legacy of World War II when developing its security strategy.

The issue is likely to remain sensitive as Japan continues to strengthen its military capabilities and deepen security partnerships in the region. For China, references to wartime history remain closely linked to concerns over regional stability and the possibility of renewed militarization.