BEIJING - A Foreign Ministry spokesman on Friday stressed that China's stance on the reform of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) remains unchanged.

"China's stance on [this matter] is consistent," Hong Lei said at a daily press briefing.

Hong's comments came after Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe delivered a speech at the UN General Assembly, calling for the international community to understand Japan's application for a permanent seat at the UNSC.

Hong said UNSC reform concerns the UN's long-term development and the vital interests of its 193 member states.

Hong said all UN members, including those aspiring to play a bigger role at the UNSC, should firstly respect history and not challenge the accomplishments of the world's anti-fascist war.