CHINA-INDIA: CHINESE FOREIGN MINISTRY SPOKESMAN CAUTIONS INDIA AGAINST FLIGHT TESTING AGNI-V ICBM
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At the weekly press briefing on September 9, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Zhao Lijian reacted to Indian media reports that India is set to conduct its first user trial of nuke capable intercontinental-range ballistic missile Agni-V, which has a 5,000-km range. The missile is likely to be flight-tested on September 23, and is capable of hitting targets in all Asian countries and parts of Africa and Europe. He said "As to whether India can develop ballistic missiles capable of carrying nuclear weapons, the UN Security Council Resolution 1172 has made clear provisions" and cited the resolution that condemned the nuclear tests conducted by India in May 1998 and demanded that India refrain from further nuclear tests, and immediately stop its nuclear weapon development programs, ballistic missiles capable of delivering nuclear weapons and any further production of fissile materials for nuclear weapons. Zhao Lijian said 'China hopes all parties in South Asia, including India, will make constructive efforts in maintaining peace and stability in the region.
(Comment: Once operationalised the Agni-V will give China pause before it undertakes aggressive actions as it will be aware that its Han heartland would be vulnerable.)
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