EU Presidency Declaration on Chinese test of anti-satellite weapon

The EU is very concerned about a recent weapons test where a Chinese missile destroyed a Chinese satellite.

A test of an anti-satellite weapon is inconsistent with international efforts to avert an arms race in outer space and undermines security in outer space. In this context the EU reaffirms the importance of security in outer space, and the urgency of preventing an arms race in outer space and is ready to contribute to that objective. EU stands by its position that the exploration and use of outer space, including the Moon and other celestial bodies, shall be for peaceful purposes only and shall be carried out for the benefit and in the interest of all countries.

In this context the EU recalls the Outer Space Treaty and calls upon all signatory States to abide by their commitment to exercise their space activities in accordance with international law and in the interest of maintaining international peace and security.

The EU calls upon China to subscribe to the Hague Code of Conduct Against the Proliferation of Ballistic Missiles.

| Arriba |

• "Europe and China: partnership, competition and leadership" - Speech by EU Commissioner Mandelson (7/11/2006)
• EU-China relations: Commission sets out its strategy (24/10/2006)
• EUHR Solana welcomes closer links between Japan, China and Republic of Korea, and expresses support in the wake of DPRK nuclear test (10/10/2006)