Japan's Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi on Tuesday rejected Chinese accusations that Tokyo is pursuing "new militarism," while accusing Beijing of rapidly expanding its own military capabilities.

Koizumi's comments represent some of Japan's most pointed remarks yet in an ongoing dispute over the country's military buildup. The defense minister characterized China's criticism as hypocritical, given what he described as China's "huge arsenal" and accelerating military expansion.

The exchange highlights growing tensions in the Asia-Pacific region as both countries increase their defense spending and military capabilities. Japan has been strengthening its defense posture in response to what it views as growing security challenges in the region.

Despite the sharp rhetoric, Koizumi indicated that Japan remains open to dialogue with China. The defense minister emphasized Japan's desire for candid discussions, even as the two nations trade accusations over their respective military policies.

The diplomatic spat comes amid broader concerns about military competition in the Asia-Pacific, with both countries modernizing their armed forces and expanding their defense budgets. China has consistently criticized Japan's military developments as a return to wartime militarism, while Japan argues its defense buildup is a necessary response to regional security threats.