THE Chinese prime minister, Wen Jiabao on Sunday launched a robust defence of his country's place on the world stage, including a sharp rebuttal of what he called “baffling” criticism of his country's role at the Copenhagen summit.

Acknowledging “serious disruption” in ties with the United States and rising criticism of Chinese assertiveness on the climate, currency, trade and other issues, the premier said he wanted to set the record straight.

“Some say China has got more arrogant and tough. Some put forward the theory of China's so-called 'triumphalism'. You have given me an opportunity to explain how China sees itself,” Wen said.

In a press conference marking the close of the annual meeting of the National People's Congress, China's parliament, Wen said the country was still developing and would never seek hegemony even when fully modernised, but had always sought to uphold its sovereignty and territorial integrity. He said China was a “responsible” nation that took an active part in international co-operation on major issues.

In the angry aftermath of the Copenhagen climate conference, China was accused of wrecking a deal by blocking emission reduction targets for 2050 and failing to send its most senior delegates to key meetings. In his most detailed public comments yet about the conference, Wen responded to critics with a Chinese proverb.

“My conscience is untainted despite rumours and slanders from outside,” he said. “It still baffles me why some people are trying to make the issue about China. Climate change is about human survival, the interest of all countries, and issues of equity and justice in the international community.”

He accused foreign leaders of a shocking breach of protocol in their attempt to press him, with advance warning, into an unscheduled meeting after a welcome banquet. “Why was China not notified of this meeting? So far, nobody has explained. it is still a mystery to me,” he said.

The final deal was the best that could be achieved in the difficult circumstances, he said, promising China's support for the Copenhagen accord. Asked about other areas of friction, particularly with the US, the premier responded “The responsibility for the serious disruption in US-China ties does not lie with the Chinese side but with the US.”

— The Guardian, London