China warns that any activities that will escalate tensions on the Korean Peninsula are “dangerous,” urging all parties to exercise restraint, said Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Geng Shuang on Friday.
On Pyongyang's possible nuclear test
China has noticed the reports that Pyongyang may conduct a sixth nuclear weapons test, said Geng. He also stressed that it is clear that the UN Security Council has urged the DPRK to give up all its plans on nuclear tests.
"For a long term period, China has always pushed for denuclearization and peace and stability in the region, and for these goals to be reached through dialogue and consultation," said Geng at a regular press conference.
On THAAD deployment in South Korea
There are some reports that South Korea has been quietly putting the equipment necessary for the deployment of the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) into place. In response, Geng said China’s position on THAAD is consistent and clear-cut.
China once again urged relevant parties to cease the deployment process, said Geng, reiterating that China will take all necessary means to safeguard national security, its interests, as well as regional strategic balance.
The first elements of the US-built Terminal High-Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system arrive at Osan US Air Base in Pyeongtaek, south of Seoul on March 6, 2017. /AFP Photo
"The deployment of THAAD will not help the denuclearization on the Korea Peninsula and maintain the peace and stability of the peninsula," he explained.
"On the contrary, it impacts the strategic and security interests of all countries in the region, including China, and also disrupts the regional strategic balance," added Geng.
(CGTN's Zou Yun also contributed to the story)
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