China ‘not seeking to dominate’

President Hu said China does not seek “hegemony” or to pursue an expansionist policy

Chinese President Hu Jintao has said China has no interest in pursuing an arms race or exerting military dominance over other nations.

“We do not engage in arms races or pose a military threat to any country,” the Chinese leader said in a speech to US business leaders.

Mr Hu called for US co-operation on economic and security issues.

On the third day of his US state visit Mr Hu met leading US politicians and was quizzed on a number of issues.

“China will never seek hegemony or pursue an expansionist policy,” Mr Hu said during a speech at a lunch with senior US officials and business leaders.

The Chinese leader added that the US and China relationship had historically enjoyed a “smooth and steady growth” when the two nations considered each other’s interests.

Earlier on Thursday, House Speaker John Boehner, a leading Republican, said he raised the need for tougher intellectual property protections and improved human rights at a meeting with Mr Hu on Capitol Hill.

Mr Hu said on that China still needed to do “a lot” over human rights, following a meeting at the White House with US President Barack Obama.

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