China concerned over aviation safety after DPRK rocket

China on Thursday said it attaches great importance to the safety of civil aviation and "relevant country" should follow international practice to ensure the security of civilian facilities in airspace and maritime space.

A foreign ministry spokesman made the remarks in response to reports that neighboring Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) had launched rockets into airways.

The Republic of Korea (ROK) has reportedly claimed that the DPRK's artillery launch on Tuesday happened minutes before a Chinese commercial plane crossed the same area.

Qin Gang said no specific matters related to China's civil aviation safety were reported on Tuesday. But, "we will check the situation with relevant parties and express our concern which is necessary."

"I want to stress here that we attach great importance to the security of China's civilian flights," Qin Gang said at a regular press briefing.

"If any country is to hold training or exercises, it should take measures in accordance with international practice to ensure the safety of civil (facilities) in relevant airspace and maritime space," Qin said.

The spokesman also called on parties to keep restrain, prevent escalation and preserve peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula.