China Defends Military Rise, Says Faces Threats – Ben Blanchard

From Reuters:

China’s military modernization will focus on strengthening its navy and air force as it faces security threats from border spats, historical disputes and self-ruled Taiwan, a defense white paper released on Friday said.

But China, whose increasing defense spending and military build-up has been a source of friction with the United States, will never engage in an arms race or threaten any other nation, the policy paper said.

…President Hu Jintao this week urged the building of a powerful Chinese navy that was prepared “at any time” for military struggle. [Full Text]

Related AP article: “China to Continue to Modernize Military”

Read article from China Daily: “China issues white paper on national defense.”