U.S.-Japan Statement Angers China

China issued a stiff protest Sunday about military cooperation between the United States and Japan, attacking a recent joint statement on Taiwan as an unwelcome intrusion into Beijing’s affairs.

The complaint, issued by the Foreign Ministry, reflected deep concern over Japan’s increasing security cooperation with the U.S. in East Asia.

Until now, Japan has left it to the U.S. to deal with China’s threats to use force against Taiwan, which Beijing views as a renegade province.

The U.S. has indicated that it would intervene if China were to try to take Taiwan by force, while a cautious Japan traditionally has sought to avoid involvement.

The revised U.S.-Japanese strategic understanding, issued Saturday after a meeting of Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice and Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld with their Japanese counterparts, for the first time included security in the area around Taiwan as a “common strategic objective.” This was described by U.S. officials as a new element in a close military association that dates from the aftermath of World War II.

In addition, the U.S.-Japanese statement drew attention to China’s rapid military modernization program, calling it a matter of concern, and urged Beijing to be more transparent in its military planning and weapons procurement.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Kong Quan said Sunday that “the statement included the Taiwan issue, which relates to China’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and national security. The Chinese government and people strongly oppose this statement.”

The focus on China’s military improvements also drew sharp criticism from Beijing. China’s foreign and defense policies are aimed at increasing security and fostering economic development in the region, Kong said.

“Any indiscreet remarks or criticisms on the construction of China’s defenses, which aim to maintain security and territorial integrity, are untenable,” he said.