China defended its recent missile test, saying it notified the United States in advance and that the exercise complied with international law and practice.
Beijing says the launch complied with international law and that Washington received advance notification.
China on Thursday rejected U.S. criticism of its recent missile test, saying Washington’s response reflected “double standards and hegemonism” and reiterating that the exercise complied with international law and established practice.
Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said China notified the United States and other countries before the launch and released relevant information in a timely manner afterward. She dismissed U.S. allegations that the notification was delayed or lacked sufficient details.
According to Mao, the missile launch was part of China’s annual military training program and was conducted to verify the reliability, safety and effectiveness of the relevant weapons systems.
She said the exercise “was not directed against any country or specific target” and complied with international law and practice.
Mao added that China’s advance notification and prompt disclosure of information demonstrated “the openness and transparency of the Chinese military.”
The spokesperson also criticized Washington’s position, saying the United States—described by China as the only country to have used nuclear weapons in armed conflict—conducts annual strategic missile launches from nuclear submarines while questioning what Beijing considers routine military tests.
She urged the United States to assess China’s national defense and military development “objectively and rationally” and to “take concrete steps to safeguard global strategic stability.”
Three days earlier, China launched a strategic missile carrying a simulated training warhead from a nuclear submarine. Chinese authorities said the test was successful after the missile landed in a designated area of the Pacific Ocean.
Author: MK
Source: Xinhua
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