Beijing: The head of US Pacific Command pushed China today to be more transparent about its defence build-up and suggested its growing military might was aimed at Taiwan, the self-ruled island Beijing claims as its own.

Admiral Timothy Keating, in his second visit since taking the helm of the Pacific Command last year, said he was concerned about China's development of new military hardware, including long-range cruise missiles and anti-satellite technology.

But he said Chinese officials insisted their military development was not aimed at any third country. "The Chinese military officials with whom I had discussions emphasised their desire to protect those things that they think are theirs and nothing more," Keating told a news conference.

Beijing and Taiwan have faced off since the end of the Chinese civil war in 1949, and China has vowed to return the island to mainland rule, by force if necessary.

"They (the Chinese) specifically have no hegemonic intentions, they do not have any expansion strategy, they advocate a peaceful rise," Keating said.

But he added he was not entirely satisfied by China's explanations and wanted further exchanges to better understand the reasons for its military growth. Increased transparency can lead to greater trust that reduces the potential for misunderstanding.

Misunderstanding can lead to conflict or crisis and that is very much not in our interest, Keating said. Keating said he also emphasised in his talks with Chinese officials Washington's adherence to the one-China policy.

The United States switched diplomatic recognition to mainland China in 1979,but remains Taiwan s biggest arms supplier and China expressed irritation recently over US plans to help Taiwan upgrade its missile system.

Source : UNI