jasdooit

South Korea, the United States, Japan, and 38 other prominent European nations released a joint statement on August 11 (local time) to condemn recent submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM) tests conducted by China. The Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) fired an SLBM with a range surpassing 10,000 km, equipped with a training dummy warhead, from a nuclear submarine near Chinese territory towards the South Pacific on July 6. The PLA informed neighboring countries, such as Australia and New Zealand, about the launch just hours prior to the test in an effort to prevent surveillance, leading to considerable criticism.

In reply, the U.S. Department of State issued a joint statement on August 11 representing 41 governments, calling on “all nations, especially nuclear-armed states, to give at least 24 hours’ notice before launching intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs), submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs), or space launch vehicles (SLVs).” Although the statement did not directly reference “China,” it stated that “recent missile test activities in the Pacific region did not adhere to standard practices followed by most countries,” which subtly criticized the PLA’s SLBM launch.

Forty-one nations stated, “Carrying out ballistic missile tests that can deliver nuclear warheads without adequate prior notice and comprehensive details is hazardous, threatening the peace and security of nearby countries. These actions heighten the risk of misunderstanding, reduce global stability, and contradict the duties associated with having long-range missile capabilities.” They further noted, “We will keep holding any country accountable for not fulfilling these obligations.”

Detailed technical information regarding the SLBM tested by China on July 6 has not been revealed. Chinese media stated that the PLA conducted a test of the JL-3 (Ju Lang), a missile able to target the entire U.S. mainland, leading to immediate criticism from the U.S., Japan, Australia, and New Zealand.

South Korea initially did not publicly criticize China but later signed the joint statement. A representative from South Korea’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated, “As we have consistently highlighted the significance of enhancing pre-notification mechanisms for ballistic missiles and space launch vehicles, we joined the joint statement according to our principled position, even though it was initiated by the U.S.”

• Monday 5900 won membership, 2900 won for newspaper readers, Chosun Membership
• 8 titles of newspapers and magazines worth 55,000 won, enjoy freely – Chosun Membership
• Receive 7000 points to use like cash, shop wisely, Chosun Membership