China reaffirms stance against space arms race at U.N. General Assembly

Written by Copernical Team Wednesday, 20 December 2023 08:37

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Sydney, Australia (SPX) Dec 18, 2023

In a recent press conference, Zhang Xiaogang, a spokesperson for China's Ministry of National Defense, emphatically restated China's long-standing position against the militarization of outer space. This declaration comes amidst growing international concerns over the potential for an arms race in space, an issue that has seen increasing attention at global forums like the United Nations.

China reaffirms stance against space arms race at U.N. General Assembly
by Simon Mansfield
Sydney, Australia (SPX) Dec 18, 2023

In a recent press conference, Zhang Xiaogang, a spokesperson for China's Ministry of National Defense, emphatically restated China's long-standing position against the militarization of outer space. This declaration comes amidst growing international concerns over the potential for an arms race in space, an issue that has seen increasing attention at global forums like the United Nations.

Zhang's remarks, made in response to a media query, emphasized China's consistent advocacy for the peaceful use of outer space. "China has been consistently advocating for the peaceful use of outer space, actively promoting international cooperation in outer space, and firmly opposed to the weaponization and arms race in outer space," Zhang stated. This stance aligns with China's broader diplomatic efforts, which have historically favored non-militarization in various domains, including cyberspace and international waters.

The spokesperson highlighted the significant support for the "No First Placement of Weapons in Outer Space" draft resolution, co-sponsored by China, Russia, and other nations, at the 78th United Nations General Assembly. This resolution, which reflects ongoing efforts to prevent the militarization of space, garnered high vote support, demonstrating a clear international inclination towards negotiating international legal instruments for arms control in outer space. The resolution is part of a series of measures proposed at the U.N. to address space security and prevent a potential arms race.

However, Zhang expressed concern about the actions of certain major powers that contradict these international efforts. "Certain major powers are moving against the tide and continuously advancing the weaponization of space and turning it into a battlefield. Such kind of move is prone to triggering a space arms race, seriously threatening space security, and undermining global strategic stability," Zhang remarked. This statement reflects the growing capabilities of nations to deploy weapons and surveillance systems in space, a development that many in the international community view as a potential threat to global security and the peaceful exploration and use of space.

In a call to action, Zhang urged countries involved in these activities to reconsider their approach. "We urge relevant countries to correct their wrongdoings, support and constructively participate in negotiations of legal instruments on space arms control, and take practical measures to uphold the international order based on international law," the spokesperson appealed. This plea underscores the necessity for a regulatory framework to manage the militarization of space and to ensure that it remains a domain for peaceful activities and cooperation among nations.

Based on a Xinhua News Agency article