China expresses its displeasure at North Korea rocket launch, calls for moderate reaction

BEIJING – China is expressing its unhappiness that Pyongyang tested a long-range rocket despite deep concerns over the launch among its neighbors.

Foreign Ministry spokesman Hong Lei told reporters Wednesday: "We express regret at (North Korea's) launch in spite of the extensive concerns of the international community."

Hong says China "believes U.N. Security Council reaction should be prudent and moderate and conducive to maintaining stability and avoiding escalation of the situation."

Hong said dialogue and negotiations are the way forward. He says he hopes relevant countries will keep calm and maintain peace on the Korean Peninsula.