中国、軍備増強前倒しも　反撃能力、防衛費増を明記―防衛白書案

　２０２３年版防衛白書の原案が２３日分かった。中国が２１世紀半ばまでに実現すると掲げている「世界一流の軍隊建設」について、「目標の前倒しを検討している可能性」を指摘。さらなる軍備増強に強い警戒感を示した。白書は７月にも閣議に報告される。
　原案は、昨年末に閣議決定した安全保障関連３文書に関する章を設け、反撃能力（敵基地攻撃能力）保有、防衛力強化のための防衛費増額の方針を明記した。
　中国の軍事動向に関しては「わが国と国際社会の深刻な懸念事項」と位置付けた。中国と台湾の軍事バランスは「中国側に有利な方向に急速に傾斜する形で変化」と記した。（2023/05/23-20:01）

Japan's upcoming defense white paper will warn that China may consider moving up its goal of building a first-class military by the mid-21st century, it was learned Tuesday.
   The 2023 white paper, which will highlight concerns about China's further military buildup, is expected to be submitted to the cabinet as early as July.
   In a section about the country's three key security documents, which were revised late last year, the white paper will mention plans to possess counterstrike capabilities and increase defense spending to boost the country's defense capabilities.
   The draft also referred to China's military activities as a serious threat not only to Japan but also to the international community.
   The balance of military power between China and Taiwan has rapidly tipped in favor of the Chinese side, the draft said.