The Chinese Defense Ministry held its first-ever regular press conference in Beijing on Wednesday afternoon.

The press conference was hosted by Defense Ministry spokesman Geng Yansheng. Apart from releasing information, he also answered questions from journalists.

The regular press conference is decided to be held at the last week of each month.

China's development of weaponry and equipment is aimed at safeguarding national security and is not directed against any other country or specific target, according to Geng. He urged the outside world to view China's weaponry and equipment tests rationally and objectively without too much interpretation and guesswork.

He reiterated that China pursues a national defense policy which is defensive in nature and implements the military strategy of active defense.

Geng's comments came in response to questions on the second test-flight of J-20 stealth fighter jet.

Geng said it is normal for China to develop and upgrade its weaponry and equipment in tandem with advancing technologies, which is the common practice of all countries that aim to modernize their armed forces.

He added that it is also common practice to trial new weapons and equipment during the development process.

(Xinhua News Agency April 27, 2011)