China's disclosure of submarine missile test launch demonstrates openness

Beijing (ANTARA) - Chinese Ministry of National Defence spokesperson Chen Xi has stated that the country informed relevant nations in advance about its test launch of a strategic missile from a nuclear-powered submarine, a move demonstrating the openness and transparency of the Chinese armed forces. Chen Xi made the statement in response to a related media query. He said the test launch, which achieved expected results, was part of a routine annual military training agenda and was conducted in accordance with international law and practice. “China follows the path of peaceful development and pursues a national defence policy that is defensive in nature,” Chen said. He stressed that China remains committed to a self-defensive nuclear strategy, maintains its nuclear capabilities at the minimum level required for national security, and does not engage in a nuclear arms race with any country. “China’s efforts to modernise its nuclear forces are aimed at safeguarding national strategic security and maintaining global strategic stability,” he said. The People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Navy stated on Monday (6/7) that one of its strategic nuclear submarines had successfully launched a strategic missile carrying a dummy warhead into international waters in the Pacific Ocean at 12:01 local time, and the missile accurately landed in the designated sea area.