The rocket-powered Shenzhou V spacecraft (left) is moved into position in Inner Mongolia as China counts down its much-anticipated first manned space mission next week.
It is believed the launch from the Jiuquan Space launch centre may take place on Wednesday.
The central government yesterday maintained the country had no intention to compete with other countries and said its development in space technology was 'solely for peaceful purposes'.
Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Zhang Qiyue said: 'China has never and will never participate in any kind of arms race in space.
'China always stands by the principle of demilitarisation in space and believes this accords with the interests of all countries.'
The launch has generated huge interest and excitement in the mainland media. Although the central government has not announced a launch date, Ms Zhang came close to confirming it would be Wednesday.
