"China's arms exports are guided by three principles: They must be helpful to the recipients' self-defense; they should not harm global and regional peace and stability; they should not interfere with other countries' domestic affairs."

Hong Lei, spokesman of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said at a daily news briefing on Monday in Beijing. The ministry said China has been responsible and prudent regarding arms exports. Beijing has abided by international laws and avoided hampering regional stability.

(China Daily 03/19/2013 page2)