Beijing: Ahead of Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao's first official visit to the United States, Beijing today (Dec 3, 2003) issued its first policy paper on non-proliferation, which opposed the spread of all kinds of weapons of mass destruction (WMDs) and undertook a pledge not to support any country to develop WMDs and their means of delivery.

"China has always taken a responsible attitude toward international affairs, stood for the complete prohibition and thorough destruction of all kinds of WMDs, including nuclear, biological and chemical weapons, and resolutely opposed the proliferation of such weapons and their means of delivery," the white paper on non-proliferation said.

Issued by the information office of the State council, China's Cabinet, the 9,000-word seven-part white paper, reiterated Beijing's firm stance of opposing the proliferation of all kinds of WMDs and their means of delivery, and elaborated on the country's persistent non-proliferation efforts.

It pledged that China did not support, encourage or assist any country to develop WMDs and their delivery means.

The US frequently imposes sanctions on China and Chinese entities for proliferating materials and technology of WMDs to countries like Pakistan and Iran. However, China has always rejected the American charges as groundless.

During Wen's meetings with US President George W Bush and other leaders, the issue of alleged Chinese proliferation of WMDs is likely to come up for discussion.

PTI