China has criticized President Bush for referring to Iran, Iraq and North Korea as an "axis of evil" that sponsors terrorism and seeks weapons of mass destruction.

A foreign ministry spokesman, responding to comments in Mr. Bush's State of the Union address Tuesday, told reporters that China does not advocate using such terms in international relations.

The spokesman stressed that China favors treating all nations equally in international affairs. He said to do otherwise risks souring the atmosphere for resolving problems, adding that harsh words are not conducive to world peace and security. North Korea, Iran and Iraq have rejected the remarks Mr. Bush made in his State of the Union speech.

The White House Wednesday said President Bush did not intend to signal imminent military action against any of the three countries when he said they form "an axis of evil."

Email this article to a friend
Printer Friendly Version