China warns Japan against hyping threats

BEIJING - The Chinese Foreign Ministry on Tuesday urged Japan to stop hyping up external threats and explain the true intent of its military buildup.

Spokeswoman Hua Chunying made the comments at a routine news briefing, responding to a reporter's question on media report that the Japanese Defense Minister Onodera Itsunori accused China of having intruded upon the waters around the Diaoyu Islands, called the Senkaku Islands by Japan.

China's stance on the related issues is clear, Hua responded, saying China pursues the path of peaceful development, which is its strategic choice based on the development trend of the era and its fundamental interests.

"If you look back at history, it is self-evident who is a peace-keeper and who is a war-maker," the spokeswoman added.

She urged Japan to stop intentionally hyping up external threats and tell the international community the true intent of its military buildup.

She emphasized that China has always insisted on dialogue and consultation to resolve disputes with neighboring countries. "Meanwhile, China will firmly respond to violation of its territorial sovereignty."

Hua urged Japan to make "tangible" efforts to safeguard regional peace and stability.