China calls for restraint after North Korea missile launch

China called on Sunday for restraint and for no party to do anything to exacerbate tension after North Korea fired a ballistic missile in defiance of calls to rein in its weapons programme.

"Relevant Security Council resolutions have clear rules about North Korea using ballistic missile technology to carry out launches. China opposes relevant launch activities by North Korea that are contrary to Security Council resolutions," China's foreign ministry said in a statement sent to Reuters.

"At present the situation on the peninsula is complex and sensitive, and all relevant parties should exercise restraint and do nothing to further worsen regional tensions."