Beijing, Jul 31 (IANS): China's military development does not target or pose a threat to any nation, said a senior Chinese army officer Tuesday.

"The development of the Chinese armed forces poses no threat to any nation, in that it aims to safeguard state sovereignty, security and development interests," said Wu Xihua, vice director of the Emergency Response Office of the General Staff Department of the People's Liberation Army.

Wu added that there are still large gaps between China's military power and the world's advanced levels, despite advance in China's military modernisation in line with China's economic growth and technological developments, reported Xinhua.

Wu said China has always been carrying out a foreign policy of friendship and partnership with neighbouring countries, as well as establishing two-way communication with neighbouring countries.

"China always advocates the peaceful settlement of international disputes and resorts to dialogue and negotiation on the basis of equality to resolve conflicts and problems, while opposing the application of force," said Wu.