Nation will never engage in arms race, PLA official asserts

China will never launch or involve itself in an arms race with any other country, especially the United States, said a senior strategist from the People's Liberation Army on Thursday.

Lieutenant General He Lei, vice-president of the PLA Academy of Military Science and a national legislator, told reporters that China's diplomatic and defense policies are peaceful and defensive in nature. Therefore no matter how the nation increases its military budget, it will never threaten other countries or engage in an arms race with others.

He, speaking at a news conference held by the State Council Information Office, responded to questions on whether China will open an arms race with the US.