BEIJING, Dec. 26 (Xinhuanet) -- China has taken a very prudent and responsible arms sales policy, and its arms trade has been following the relevant international laws. Defense Ministry spokesman Yang Yujun made the remarks at a monthly news briefing on Thursday, in response to some concerns in the media about the increase of China’s arms sales. Earlier, a Sweden-based institution said that this has risen to the fifth highest globally.
For the first time, a PLA offshore patrol ship has been delivered to an African country. Nigeria has bought two such vessels. Globally, China has sold over 20 different vessels. Chinese military contracts on several fronts have seen a steady growth. Also growing are western concerns. But the Chinese Defense Ministry stressed that the country is upholding a prudent and responsible policy.
" China has always adhered to the principle that arms exports should not impair peace, security and stability of regions or the world at large. And does not interfere with the internal affairs of the recipient countries. China’s arms sales have abided by the relevant UN resolutions and international laws," says Yang Yujun, spokesman of Chinese Defense Ministry.
Due to lower prices, practicability on the battlefields, and good after-sale services, China’s military products have found their markets. Most of its exports are home-grown armored vehicles, light weaponry, airplanes and ships. And most are also well used by the PLA.
Military expert Yin Zhuo points out China’s arms exports account for only a small percentage of the global total. It is groundless to criticize the country for its arms trade increase.
"China’s arms sales are on the basis of good diplomatic relations. It’s based on the principle of mutual respect and benefit, in helping relevant regions to carry out normal defense needs. The arms trade will not change the regional security balance," says Rear Admiral Yin Zhuo, director of Chinese Navy Information Technology Advisory Committee.
Yin Zhuo also says that China’s arms sales are not motivated by generating export earnings.
The government has more control over it.
"China is not competing with leading arms sellers like the US and Russia in the same market. And China does not have the aim to replace them on the global market. Not like some other countries, the military development will not rely on arms sales, as its own military has a huge procurement requirements that can ease the arms investigation and development fees," Yin says.
With China's economic growth, its military modernization will speed up. And reliance on arms imports will drop, as its own industry develops. For China, expanding arms sales is seen as a natural consequence.
(Source: CNTV.cn)
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