BEIJING - Actions taken by China in response to Japan's illegal "purchase" of the Diaoyu Islands are "proper and necessary," Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said on Friday.

At a regular press briefing, she said Japan's actions had infringed on China's territorial sovereignty.

Hua made the remarks when asked to comment on the criticism from Shinzo Abe, head of the Japanese opposition Liberal Democratic Party, of China's military budget increase and its attitude on the Diaoyu Islands.

Hua stressed that China has been and will always be sticking to the path of peaceful development and maintaining regional stability.

She said that China was devoted to solving disputes through talks and negotiations, and had tried its best to exercise restraint.

"However, using all kinds of excuses and means, Japan has grown its armaments throughout the years, which draws wide attention from regional countries and the international community. It's high time for Japan to reflect on itself," Hua said.