China urges UNSC calm on DPRK satellite

China on Monday called on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) to react calmly to the recent satellite launch by the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK).

"China maintains that the UNSC's reaction be prudent and moderate, work for the peace and stability of the (Korean) Peninsula and avoid the progressive escalation of tensions," Foreign Ministry spokesman Hong Lei said at a daily press briefing on Monday.

Hong's remarks came when asked to comment on reports that the UNSC is likely to pass a resolution on the DPRK's satellite launch.

Last month, the second version of Kwangmyongsong-3 successfully lifted off from the Sohae Space Center aboard carrier rocket Unha-3 and entered the pre-set orbit, according to DPRK media.

The satellite launch drew a wave of protests. The UN Security Council condemned it, calling it the move "a clear violation" of council resolutions. The United States and its allies saw the launch as a disguised test of the DPRK's long-range ballistic missile capabilities.

Hong said China has repeatedly expressed its position on DPRK satellite launches, stressing regret over the issue.

"Based on such a stance, China has constructively participated in the recent UNSC negotiations," Hong said.