N. Korea Missile Test

[Anchor Lead]

And while heads of major countries were gathering in Hangzhou for the Group of 20 summit... North Korea again test-launched three Nodong missiles into the East Sea. China expressed displeasure at the North Korean provocation. Here are the details.

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North Korea's latest provocation occurred as the G20 summit was under way in Hangzhou, China. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying repeatedly urged Pyongyang not to heighten tensions, saying that the current political situation on the Korean Peninsula is complex and sensitive.

[Soundbite] Hua Chunying(Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson) : "We hope that the countries concerned will avoid acts that heighten political tension, and jointly protect peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula."

Regarding the question of whether Beijing is planning to issue a protest against North Korea, China's reponse was that it would express its position to relevant countries through its own routes. Chinese media, including state-run outlets, reported extensively on the North Korean ballistic missile test. Covering the missile launch as breaking news, Xinhua News Agency said that it appeared to be a military action ahead of the founding anniversary of the North Korean regime on Friday. The Global Times Network called for resolution through dialogue, relaying the Chinese government's emphasis on rationality and restraint. Beijing is expressing displeasure at North Korea's insistence on inflicting provocations even on the momentous day of the G20 summit.