China calls on U.S., Russia to uphold nuclear disarmament responsibilities

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said on Monday that the United States and Russia should fulfill their special responsibilities on nuclear disarmament and resume implementation of the New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (New START).

Guo made the remarks at a regular press briefing when asked about Russian President Vladimir Putin's statement that Russia is prepared to continue adhering to the limitations of the New START after it expires next year – but only if Washington provides a reciprocal response.

Guo said that China appreciates Russia's positive stance and reiterated China's consistent position on the issue. He noted that as the two countries with the largest nuclear arsenals, the U.S and Russia should earnestly fulfill their special responsibilities on nuclear disarmament, resume implementation of the New START, and discuss follow-up arrangements.

Guo said that both sides should continue to significantly and substantively reduce their nuclear arsenals, adding this is widely expected by the international community.