WhatsApp Logo Subscribe
For News Alert

News

China says ICBM launch 'routine', no change in nuclear policy

By News Desk

September 26, 2024 01:16 PM


Representational image

Twitter Share Facebook Share WhatsApp Share

China said on Thursday its test of an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) was "legitimate and routine", and that it had not changed its nuclear policy, after the launch prompted an outcry from regional powers.

"The ICBM launch is to test our weapon and training performance. It is a legitimate and routine arrangement for military training," defence ministry spokesperson Zhang Xiaogang told a news conference in Beijing.

"China's nuclear policy is very stable, consistent and predictable. We strictly follow a nuclear policy of no first use of nuclear weapons and pursue a nuclear strategy of self-defence," Zhang said.

He said China does not seek an "arms race" and had "promised not to use or threaten to use nuclear weapons against non-nuclear weapons states or weapon-free zones".

"China will continue to keep its nuclear capabilities at the minimum level required for national security," Zhang said.

China announced the rare trial on Wednesday -- its first in four decades -- saying that the missile was carrying a dummy warhead.

French Polynesia said the missile landed near its exclusive economic zone and the French High Commission said Beijing had notified Paris of the launch.

However, Japan said it had not been given advance warning. Australia said it was seeking "an explanation", while New Zealand called the launch "an unwelcome and concerning development".


News Desk


Most Read

  1. Ramsha Khan and Ahad Raza Mir’s romantic strolls & shopping spree in London Ramsha Khan and Ahad Raza Mir’s romantic strolls & shopping spree in London
  2. Terrorists massacre 20 Pashtun workers at Duki coalmines in Balochistan Terrorists massacre 20 Pashtun workers at Duki coalmines in Balochistan
  3. Bangladesh JI chief supports Hasina’s trial for crimes against humanity Bangladesh JI chief supports Hasina’s trial for crimes against humanity
  4. Faiza Khan deserves to be lead alongside Wahaj in 'Sun Mere Dil', say fans Faiza Khan deserves to be lead alongside Wahaj in 'Sun Mere Dil', say fans
  5. Mehwish Hayat and Honey Singh tease fans with new song collaboration Mehwish Hayat and Honey Singh tease fans with new song collaboration
  6. Zarnish Khan’s humble apology to Zakir Naik amidst backlash in Pakistan Zarnish Khan’s humble apology to Zakir Naik amidst backlash in Pakistan