Politics
12:40, 20-Mar-2018
Premier Li: China will not use economic power to seek expansion
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Chinese Premier Li Keqiang said Tuesday that China will not use its economic power to seek expansion and hegemony.
Addressing a press conference after the conclusion of the annual session of China's national legislature, Li said China pursues peaceful development and will not occupy an inch of others' land.
"China is resolute in upholding its own territorial integrity and will not abandon a single inch of its own land. China also pursues peaceful development and in the same way, China will not take or occupy an inch of others' land."
He noted that in recent years, China's economic growth accounted for some 30 percent of the global growth – an important contribution to global economic recovery and efforts to uphold global peace.
"With more trade, there is going to be more negotiations and that helps to keep conflicts away," Li said.
Talking about the country's role internationally, Li emphasized two points: China is in no intention to pursue expansion, even if it grows stronger in the future; and China will continue to focus on managing its own affairs well.
"China will develop with other countries based on mutual respect, equality and mutual benefits," Li added.