Meanwhile, we hold that, when a country pursues the development of missile defense system with outer space as its important base, prevention of an arms race in outer space is more urgent than the FMCT negotiation. Therefore, the three major disarmament issues, namely, nuclear disarmament, prevention of an arms race in outer space and FMCT should be dealt with in a balanced manner at the Conference on Disarmament. We are of the view that conventional disarmament involves a wide range of issues and has direct bearings on the security of all countries. Therefore, CBMs of a global nature in this field cannot be established overnight. In addition to their inherent complexities, CBMs are also subject to the influence of many other factors, among which the overall international security situation is the primary one.
Conventional disarmament is also closely related to other disarmament issues.
The stalemate of nuclear disarmament process between the two major nuclear powers, and the development and proliferation of missile defense systems that may trigger an arms race in outer space, also contribute to the lack of progress in conventional disarmament. The Chinese delegation maintains that CBMs in conventional arms should not compromise the security of countries concerned. We should explore principles and ways to guarantee the security of countries concerned, so as to create a favorable atmosphere for establishing global CBMs in the field of conventional arms. The Chinese delegation is of the view that CBMs should not be discussed in abstract terms. Instead, we should explore concrete measures in light of specific conditions and timing, and seek common ground while putting aside differences.