Australia does not have to worry about a war between China and the United States as a result of U.S. failure to share power because China does not pursue dominance or an exclusive regional order, Chinese Lieut. Gen. Ren Haiquan told Xinhua at an exclusive interview here Wednesday.

Ren, vice president of the People's Liberation Army Academy of Military Science, made the remarks after attending the Chief of Army's Exercise 2012 (CAEX) in Australia held here from October 28 to 30.

Ren commented on the idea first broached in a book, "The China Choice," by Australian strategist Hugh White, who argued that the United States should share power as an equal with China in Asia Pacific,otherwise the power struggle between the two countries could lead to a catastrophic war.

"In terms of Australian national interests, I can understand why White brought up this idea. But it's overly anxious. China consistently adheres to the long-term peaceful development policy. No matter to what extent we develop, China will never seek hegemony," Ren stressed.

"The road of peaceful development of China has taken means that China will not follow the suits of past emerging powers in history that sought hegemony by military expansion and resources plunder. China will develop itself in peaceful and cooperative ways and rely mainly upon itself," Ren noted.

According to Ren, China does not pursue development only to seek dominance. "China has no intention to build a sphere of influence or create an exclusive regional order. We firmly persist in the principle of being a good neighbor and partner," he said.

Ren delivered a speech titled "China's Perspective on Regional Security and Stability in Asia" at CAEX, in which he proposed five points in order to maintain peace and stability and the momentum of development in Asia, namely development, inclusive mindset,cooperation, sound mechanisms and institutions, and stability.

Ren said it is interesting that many Asian countries have major business relations with China but are also defense allies of the United States. "It showed a contradictory mindset," he said.

He emphasized that every country in the region has its own ability to tackle security issues independently. "Some external countries'involvement may complicate the situation on the contrary."

Ren Haiquan also observed the "Exercise Cooperation Spirit 2012," the first joint drill on humanitarian assistance and disaster relief held by Chinese, Australian and New Zealand armies in the Australian coastal city of Brisbane from Oct. 29 to Nov. 1.

"In terms of security affairs, especially in the field of non- traditional security issues, China and Australia have more intimate cooperation which contributes to the great prospect," Ren said.

Ren also said that the equilibrium relation among China, Australia and the U.S. always contribute to the regional stability. "We should keep the balanced situation and cherish the peace and stability. The better way for Asia Pacific to protect its own security is by decreasing the military deployment and increasing the economic development. Potential arms race should not exist." Ren said. 

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