Beijing warns against increasing tensions over DPRK's satellite

Beijing has sent a series of urgent warnings through diplomatic channels in response to Pyongyang's Sunday satellite launch and reactions by Washington and Seoul, urging no more actions to flare up tension in the region.

Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Hua Chunying confirmed on Sunday night that Vice-Foreign Minister Liu Zhenmin had an urgent meeting with DPRK's Ambassador to China Ji Jae Ryong on Sunday.

Liu lodged representations over DPRK's launch of a satellite using ballistic missile technology and made clear China's principled position.

Following the Sunday launch, the Republic of Korea Defense Ministry officially announced that the ROK and the United States have decided to formally start talks on deploying the THAAD system to the US military base in the ROK.

In response, Liu, the Vice-Foreign Minister, lodged representations with the ROK side over its announcement of starting formal talks with the US on deploying the THAAD system.

Liu made clear China's solemn position during an urgent meeting with ROK's Ambassador to China Kim Jang-soo.

"The Chinese side also made clear the relevant position to the US side through diplomatic channels," said the spokeswoman.

When asked about the ROK Defense Ministry's announcement, Hua Chunying said: "The Chinese side is deeply concerned about it.”

"China holds a consistent and clear position on anti-missile issues. No country shall undermine other countries' security interests while pursuing its own," Hua said.

Hua said moving ahead with the deployment of anti-missile systems in the region "will further raise tensions on the Korean Peninsula.”

"It will not help maintain regional peace and stability, nor will it lead to a proper settlement of the current situation. We urge relevant parties to deal with this issue with care and caution," Hua added.