Policy 'defensive'

Beijing slammed Tokyo's annual defense white paper on Tuesday and reiterated that China "pursues a national defense policy which is defensive in nature".

China also called on the Japanese side to contribute more to promote bilateral mutual trust in politics, security, and regional stability and development, according to the Chinese Foreign Ministry.

"China's enhancement of national defense and military modernization is aimed at safeguarding territorial sovereignty, security and territorial integrity, posing no threats to any other countries. Some countries are keen to dwell on the ordinary development of other countries' armed forces, behind which are their ulterior motives obviously," the ministry said.