China seeks global peace, development, not hegemony, Wang says

China will never seek international hegemony, and will always stand by the common interests of all countries, State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi said on Sunday.

China has always adhered to an independent foreign policy of peace, and will champion world peace and common development, Wang said, rebuking comments that China is adopting a "wolf-warrior" approach of diplomacy.

The Chinese people cherish peace, and China will never take the initiative to bully others, Wang said. It will, however, hit back powerfully at intentional defamation, he added.

China hopes all countries will support each other more and cooperate more, and not indulge in accusations and confrontations, Wang said.