United States urges China to engage in "serious and effective" discussions on arms control

Washington, June 7 (KUNA) -- The United States on Monday urged Beijing to engage in “serious and effective” discussions on arms control, expressing deep concern after China conducted a test launch of a strategic missile carrying a dummy warhead from a submarine in the Pacific Ocean.

In a statement, the U.S. State Department said that “while the United States is making unprecedented efforts to prevent nuclear proliferation, China is pursuing a completely opposite course.” The statement added that “China’s rapid and opaque expansion of its nuclear arsenal is causing deep concern throughout the region and the world,” noting that Washington continues to urge China to engage in “serious and effective” arms control discussions.

It called on China to commit to a regular mechanism for advance notification of all intercontinental ballistic missile launches and space launches, in line with international commitments, and affirmed that the United States remains steadfast in its commitment to defending its allies and partners.

The Chinese Navy had earlier announced that it had successfully conducted a missile launch test in the Pacific Ocean. (End) A.M.M. / M.M.J.