China expresses concern about North Korean satellite launch

China expressed concern about the North Korea’s planned rocket launch ahead of an international nuclear summit in Seoul, as it tries to portray itself as a peacemaker amid rising pressure on Pyongyang from the US and its allies, The Wall Street Journal reported. Luo Zhaohui, a senior Chinese Foreign Ministry official, reiterated Beijing’s worries and concerns over the launch on Tuesday, a notion first expressed last Friday. Ri Yong Ho, North Korea’s chief nuclear negotiator, warned against any attempt to interfere with the satellite launch during his Beijing visit, a day after Japan’s defense minister said he would consider shooting down a North Korean missile if it poses a danger to his country. “Regarding the planned peaceful satellite launch, should others apply a double standard or inappropriately interfere with our rights, we would have no choice but to respond,” Ri told Chinese state-run television. Analysts widely believe the launch is intended to test a long-range missile.