China Concerned By US Intention To Withdraw From ABM Treaty

The USA intention to withdraw from the 1972 ABM treaty is arousing concerns in China. A statement to this effect was made by foreign ministry spokeswoman Zhang Qiyue at a briefing in Beijing on Thursday. Commenting on the reports of President Bush's plan to put the issue of withdrawal from the treaty before US congress, the Chinese diplomat stressed that China "does not support plans to develop a defence system". Beijing, she stated, "is pointing out its anxiety about the negative consequences that could happen as a result of the USA decision". The foreign ministry spokesperson also called for the launch of talks on the issue of strategic stability. Earlier, the Chinese foreign ministry reiterated its warning of the negative repercussions that could transpire as a result of Washington's withdrawal from the ABM. In particular, the Chinese foreign ministry believes that it could lead to a break down in the established global strategic balance, escalate the arms race and encourage the development of space type strategic weapons.