Berlin Warns Of New Asian Arms Race After Indian Agni-V Missile Test

Berlin, April 21, IRNA -- Germany here Friday warned of a renewed arms race in Asia following India's successful test of its first nuclear-capable intercontinental ballistic missile. Addressing media representatives in Berlin, deputy foreign ministry spokesman Martin Schaefer stressed no country could have any interest in 'a new armament spiral in Asia.' 'The federal (government) hopes all states in the region are aware of their responsibility towards peace and stability,' he added. The Agni-V with a range of over 5,000 kilometers was reportedly launched from a military base off the eastern state of Orissa and hit a target in the southern Indian Ocean. With the successful test, India became the sixth nation - after the five permanent members of the UN Security Council: the United States, Russia, China, France and Britain - to possess intercontinental missiles. The Agni series of missiles, a key part of India's deterrent program aimed primarily at regional rivals Pakistan and China, had a maximum range of 3,500 kilometers before Thursday's test. The range of the Agni-V also covers parts of Europe, the Middle East and South-East Asia. Both China and Pakistan have also nuclear-capable missiles./end