AFP: Several foreign governments have criticized China’s missile test launch yesterday. They include some countries in the South Pacific, like the Solomon Islands and also New Zealand, who have said that they don’t want to see missiles tested in the South Pacific near them. I wonder if you have a response to those countries who are worried about tests close to their territory?

Mao Ning: The test launch is a routine training activity of China’s military. It is not directed at any specific country or target. The Chinese side had notified relevant countries beforehand, as is consistent with international law and customary international practice. I would also like to stress that China is committed to the path of peaceful development and follows a defensive nuclear strategy. There is no need for any country to overinterpret the test launch.