China increases its defense budget to US $209 billion

“The increase in the defense budget has been done to strengthen national defense. China's efforts do not threaten any country nor is there any target in our country,” said Chinese Prime Minister Li Keqiang.

“A country is a danger to others; it depends on what kind of defense policy it adopts. China is committed to the path of peaceful development and follows a defensive policy,” he added.

Last year, Chinese officials announced a topline defense figure of 1.268 trillion yuan, which amounts to $178 billion. (ILKHA)