The State Department criticized China for failing to provide sufficient advance notification of a nuclear-capable missile test in the South Pacific on Monday. Beijing notified the United States a few hours before the flight test of a submarine-launched ballistic missile but failed to provide details on the test.
US Concerns
A State Department official stated that launching nuclear-capable missiles without participating in a regularized mechanism for advanced notification is irresponsible. The official added that China’s notification to the United States came only a few hours before the launch and failed to provide sufficient detail, falling considerably short of standards adopted by all other P5 nuclear weapon states.
The test, which flew close to the U.S. island of Guam, was criticized or condemned by several regional states, including Japan, Taiwan, Australia, New Zealand, and South Korea. The test occurred amid China’s rapid and opaque nuclear weapons buildup and is of great concern to the region.
The US urged Beijing to engage in meaningful discussions on strategic stability and arms control, adding that the US remains steadfast in its defense commitments to its allies and partners.
China’s Response
In Beijing, Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said the test was routine and part of annual military training aimed at verifying the reliability, safety, and effectiveness of its weapons. She stated that the activity complies with international law and customary international practice and is not directed at any specific country or target.
China released relevant information in a timely manner and notified the United States and other nations before the test. The notification shows openness and transparency, according to Ms. Mao.
The spokeswoman said US criticism of the test was a typical example of double standards and hegemonism. She added that the US needs to view the development of China’s national defense and military in an objective and rational light and earnestly uphold global strategic stability.
Original reporting: WMAL (Washington DC) — read the source article.
