BEIJING -- China has urged Japan to adhere to the path of peaceful development and act prudently in security matters, a Foreign Ministry spokesperson said here Tuesday.

Media reported that Japan is considering refitting the Izumo helicopter carrier so that fighters can take off and land on it.

Responding to that, spokesperson Hua Chunying said Japan's moves in military security always draw the attention of its neighbors and the international community at large for historical reasons.

Japan's actions may violate Article 9 of its pacifist constitution, which provides a legal guarantee for Japan's adherence to the path of peaceful development in the postwar era, Hua said.

"We urge Japan to do more that may help enhance mutual trust and promote regional peace and stability," she said.