China’s military sharply criticized Japan’s plan to deploy long-range missiles and urged Tokyo to halt its weapons buildup.
At a regular briefing on the 11th, Zhang Bin, spokesman for China’s Ministry of National Defense, said the deployment of offensive missiles with an estimated 1,000-kilometer range (about 621 miles) signals Japan’s remilitarization.
He accused Tokyo of abandoning its long-stated policy of exclusive, passive self-defense.
China also condemned recent U.S. and Israeli airstrikes on Iran as unauthorized military actions that violate international law because they lacked U.N. Security Council approval.
Beijing called for an immediate halt to military operations and a return to dialogue.
China’s military reiterated its existing position on Taiwan.
Xinhua reported that Zhang Xiaogang, spokesman for the People’s Liberation Army delegation, told the National People’s Congress on the previous day that Beijing seeks peaceful reunification but would not promise to renounce the use of force.
He said the measures are intended to counter Taiwan independence forces and interference from external powers.
Prime Minister Li Qiang also vowed in his government work report to strike decisively at separatist forces pushing for Taiwan independence.
Bae Sam-jin, Correspondent (baesj@yna.co.kr)
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Bae Sam-jin (baesj@yna.co.kr)
