The Chinese Embassy in Argentina has voiced strong dissatisfaction with recent remarks made by Laura Richardson, the commander of the U.S. Southern Command. Richardson criticized the China-Argentina Deep Space Station in Neuquén, describing it as providing the Chinese People's Liberation Army with global tracking and surveillance capabilities, potentially translating into military advantages.
In response, the Chinese Embassy emphasized that the Neuquén Deep Space Station is a civilian project aimed at advancing radio astronomy, radar observations, and spacecraft missions. The embassy highlighted that the operation of the station is open and transparent, underscoring its role in fostering economic and trade cooperation between China and Argentina.
The embassy criticized the United States for what it described as double standards, pointing out that the U.S. maintains approximately 800 military bases worldwide with 173,000 troops stationed in 159 countries and regions. It called for the U.S. to provide clearer explanations regarding the impact of its overseas military activities on the sovereignty and security of other nations.
Furthermore, the Chinese Embassy highlighted the successes of the Belt and Road Initiative, noting that it has driven nearly a trillion dollars in investment, established over 3,000 cooperation projects, created 420,000 jobs, and lifted nearly 40 million people out of poverty in partner countries. The embassy reiterated that China-Argentina cooperation is built on mutual respect, equality, and mutual benefit, contributing significantly to Argentina's industrial upgrading, social development, and job creation.
Concluding the statement, the embassy reaffirmed China's commitment to upholding principles of mutual respect and win-win cooperation. It emphasized the importance of respecting the sovereignty of Latin American and Caribbean countries, including Argentina, and expressed intention to continue fostering practical cooperation to promote the development and resilience of both nations and the global economy.
Reference(s):
China slams U.S. general's remarks on China-Argentina space project
cgtn.com
