Defense paper accusations against China provoke anger

The Japanese Cabinet has triggered an angry response from its Asian neighbors after it approved an annual defense white paper, a document that in belligerent terms accuses China of raising regional tensions.

Analysts said the tone of the paper, which rules out making concessions and was delayed for a week so that a tougher stance against China could be adopted, signifies a shift in Japan's perceptions, attitudes and responses to its position in Asia and the world.

The 429-page document starts with a section on regional concerns, the longest part of which is devoted to China.