BEIJING, October 24, 2026 (DAILYNWZ) — China has warned that a race to build weapons in space could threaten international security, calling for stronger global rules to keep outer space peaceful as scientific advances expand its uses.
In a position paper published on Friday, Beijing said existing international law was struggling to keep pace with rapid scientific and technological progress and the growing range of space applications. It argued that the increasing militarisation of space posed risks to international security and stability.
“Space exploration achievements should benefit all countries,” the document said, warning that an arms race and the transformation of space into a new theatre of conflict had become major security concerns.
China called for space governance based on the sovereign equality of states, respect for international law and multilateral cooperation. It said the development of space activities should be balanced with the need to maintain security, stability and sustainability.
The paper also urged countries to ensure fair and non-discriminatory access to space, while respecting the rights and security interests of all states. It called for greater transparency in space activities to reduce the risk of misunderstandings, as well as stronger oversight of commercial operations in orbit.
Beijing said international cooperation should be deepened, with the United Nations remaining at the centre of global efforts to govern space. The document did not specify new enforcement measures or a timetable for strengthening the existing legal framework.
The paper also criticised activities that could undermine other countries’ sovereignty, security or development. It called for renewed commitment to the principle that states should not threaten or use force in international relations, including against space objects, to help prevent armed conflict beyond Earth.
China’s position places emphasis on preventing space from becoming another arena for military confrontation, while seeking to preserve access for countries with different levels of technological and economic development.
The document comes as space capabilities play an increasingly important role in national security, communications and other civilian applications. Beijing’s call for stronger rules reflects its stated preference for a multilateral approach, with the United Nations serving as the main forum for international space governance.
The paper does not, however, outline a specific new treaty or explain how countries should address disagreements over military activities in orbit. Its proposals leave open how calls for transparency, restraint and cooperation would be translated into binding rules or practical limits on the use of force in space.