China is "strongly dissatisfied" with Japan's 2016 defense white paper over its groundless accusations against China's defense development and military activities, according to a spokesperson for the Foreign Ministry on Wednesday.
Spokesperson Hua Chunying said in a statement that China made solemn representations to Japan over the irresponsible white paper.
Japan has no right to make carping comments on China's legitimate activities near Diaoyu Islands, Hua said, stressing that China's determination to safeguard territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests is "unshakable."
She noted that China's navy and air force activities are in line with international law, domestic law as well as national defense needs.
China will not accept the "award" of the South China Sea arbitration initiated unilaterally by the Philippines, said Hua, adding that China will continue to work for the peaceful settlement of disputes in the South China Sea through bilateral negotiation between countries directly concerned on the basis of respect for historical facts.
The spokesperson blamed Japan for fabricating excuses for military expansion through stirring up enmity on regional security.
She urged Japan to earnestly learn from history, stick to a peaceful development path, act prudently in the military field and gain trust from its neighbors instead of undermining regional stability.
Chinese Defense Ministry on Tuesday also expressed strong opposition to the Japanese white paper.
