China 'regrets' DPRK's satellite launch

BEIJING -- China regrets the Democratic People's Republic of Korea's (DPRK) satellite launch amid the "universal" concern of the international community, a Foreign Ministry spokesman said Wednesday.

Spokesman Hong Lei made the remarks at a daily news briefing, responding to a reporter's question on DPRK's satellite launch.

"The Chinese side always holds that (all sides concerned) should find an ultimate way to long-lasting peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula through dialogues and consultations," Hong said.

"(We) hope that all sides concerned will keep calm on the issue and make joint efforts to safeguard the overall situation of peace and stability on the peninsula," he added.

The DPRK successfully launched a satellite into orbit earlier Wednesday, the country's official KCNA news agency reported.

"The DPRK is entitled to the peaceful use of outer space, but that right is currently restrained by relevant UN Security Council resolutions," Hong said, adding that the DPRK, as a member of the United Nations, is obliged to observe the Security Council resolutions.

In response to a question on "what action the Security Council should take," Hong said the Chinese side holds that the Security Council's response should be "prudent and moderate" and conducive to maintaining the overall peace and stability of the peninsula instead of escalating tensions there.

Wednesday's launch marked the DPRK's second attempt this year and its fifth attempt since 1998 to launch a long-range rocket.

The DPRK, whose previous attempt in April ended in failure, has stated that the satellite will be used for peaceful and scientific purposes only, adding that it will abide by international regulations.