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China has denied harbouring hegemonic ambitions in the world, and claimed that its increasing power is only aimed at its path for peaceful development.
"I think neither of your arguments holds water as China has always pursued an independent foreign policy of peace China will stick to the path of peaceful development. Both at present and in the future, China will never seek hegemony," Xinhua quoted Foreign Ministry spokesman Ma Zhaoxu, as saying while addressing a regular press briefing.
Ma made the comments in response to a reporter's assertion that China's increasingly tougher line in the international arena signified the country's attempt to seek a leadership role in the world.
"We always maintain that nations, big or small, strong or weak, rich or poor, are equal members of the international community. We neither bully other countries nor interfere in their domestic issues," Ma said.
"We never allow any other country to meddle in China's internal affairs or undermine China's sovereignty or security," he added.
Ma pointed out that China was still a developing country and had a long way to go before accomplishing modernisation. With its increasing power, China would continue to play a constructive role in international affairs and assume its due responsibilities and duties, he said.