China warns North Korea about rocket test plans (+video)
North Korea, a longtime Chinese ally, plans to launch a long-range rocket later this month, raising tensions with the US and South Korea.
Beijing
China expressed concern Sunday over its ally North Korea's plans to launch a long-range rocket in mid-December.
All sides should work for stability and avoid acts that raise tensions, the Foreign Ministry said in a brief statement. It acknowledged North Korea's right to the peaceful use of outer space, but said that had to be harmonized with restrictions including those set by the United Nations Security Council.
"We hope all relevant parties will do that which benefits peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula, hope all sides will respond calmly and avoid exacerbating the situation," ministry spokesman Qin Gang said in the statement.
The North Korean launch, set for Dec. 10 to 22, is likely to heighten already strained tensions with Washington and Seoul as South Korea plans to hold a presidential election on Dec. 19 and President Barack Obama prepares to begin his second term.
