**Amid Rising Tensions, US and China Condemn North Korea’s Latest Missile Launch**
**Pyongyang’s Recent Provocations Raise Concerns Over Regional Stability**
**Washington, D.C.** – The United States and China have strongly condemned North Korea’s recent launch of an intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM), expressing deep concern over the escalation of tensions in the Korean Peninsula. The missile launch, which occurred on Sunday, March 5, 2023, marked North Korea’s second major weapons test in less than a week, following the launch of a Hwasong-15 intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) on February 18.
In a joint statement issued by the US State Department and the Chinese Foreign Ministry, both countries denounced North Korea’s actions and called for an immediate cessation of all missile tests and other provocative activities. The statement emphasized the potential threat posed by North Korea’s nuclear and missile programs to regional and international security, and urged Pyongyang to engage in meaningful dialogue to resolve tensions peacefully.
The US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, expressed deep concern about the missile launch and its implications for the stability of the Korean Peninsula. He reaffirmed the US commitment to working closely with allies and partners in the region, including South Korea and Japan, to address the North Korean threat. Blinken also emphasized the need for increased cooperation and coordination among international actors to deter further provocations from Pyongyang.
The Chinese Foreign Ministry echoed the US’s concerns, stating that the missile launch was a violation of United Nations Security Council resolutions and posed a serious challenge to regional peace and stability. China urged North Korea to exercise restraint and return to dialogue, while also calling on the US and other parties involved to create a conducive atmosphere for negotiations.
The recent missile launches by North Korea have heightened tensions on the Korean Peninsula and raised concerns among global powers. The missile tests are seen as a sign of Pyongyang’s continued efforts to develop its nuclear and missile capabilities, despite international condemnation and sanctions. The US and its allies have warned of severe consequences if North Korea continues with its provocations, while China has urged all parties to exercise restraint and engage in dialogue.
The international community is closely monitoring the situation and urging North Korea to abandon its nuclear and missile ambitions and engage in meaningful negotiations to achieve a peaceful and stable Korean Peninsula.
**Additional Reactions from Key Players:**
* **South Korea:** The South Korean government strongly condemned the missile launch, calling it a .
