Beijing:
China Friday expressed "firm opposition" to a Pentagon report, saying it is a groundless speculation on China's military development made with ulterior motives, Xinhua reported.
"China's military buildup is completely aimed at safeguarding the country's independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity and is part of the country's justified rights," said China's foreign ministry spokesperson Hong Lei.
Hong's comment came after the US Department of Defence Thursday released its annual report on Chinese military and security development. The 96-page report -- 'Military and Security Developments Involving the People's Republic of China 2014' -- is thicker than last year's, and questioned the transparency of China's defence spending.
Hong said the Pentagon report questioned the normal defence construction of China as well as its legitimate behaviour to safeguard territorial sovereignty and security interests.
He added that the groundless speculation on China's military development is made with ulterior motives.
Hong stressed China has always adhered to the path of peaceful development, pursued a defence policy which is defensive in nature and become a staunch force in safeguarding peace and stability in Asia-Pacific region and the world.