Washington's missile plan reckless

If there is still any doubt over China's resolve to safeguard its national security, especially when it is under direct threat on its doorstep, listen again to Fu Cong.

The director general of the Department of Arms Control of the Foreign Ministry reiterated China's firm opposition to the announced plan by the United States to deploy ground-based intermediate-range missiles in the Asia-Pacific region during a seminar on international security in Shenzhen, Guangdong province, on Wednesday. He also said China is willing to work with other countries to maintain global strategic stability and reduce the risks of nuclear conflicts.

Should the US go ahead with the provocative move, China "would have no choice but to take necessary countermeasures in defense of its national security", Fu said, while urging the US and other countries concerned "to exercise restraint and prudence on this matter".