China expresses grave concern over U.S. 'Golden Dome' missile defense system

China expressed grave concern over U.S. "Golden Dome" missile defense system on Wednesday, saying it carries clear offensive implications and will heighten the risks of space militarization and an arms race.

The U.S. released details of the "Golden Dome" missile defense system on May 20, which reportedly will be fully constructed in three years, consisting "next-generation" technologies across land, sea and space.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said at a news briefing that the system seeks a significant expansion of outer space-based combat capabilities and carries clear offensive implications.

She stated that it violates the principle of peaceful use of outer space as enshrined in the Outer Space Treaty and will heighten the risks of space militarization and an arms race, which will undermine international security and arms control frameworks.

"The U.S. pursues an 'America First' policy, obsessively seeking absolute security for itself, at the expense of the principle of undiminished security for all countries," Mao said, adding "this jeopardizes global strategic balance and stability. China is gravely concerned over this development."

Mao urged the U.S. to abandon its development and deployment of the global missile defense system and take concrete steps to enhance strategic mutual trust among major powers and safeguard global strategic stability.