Beijing: China on Friday declared that it has no plans to engage in a space race with any nation. This announcement came in response to recent comments by US President Donald Trump, who asserted that the United States is now "dominating space" after previously "losing it to both China and Russia."

According to Anadolu Agency, China's Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Mao Ning, addressed the issue at a press briefing, emphasizing China's commitment to the peaceful use of outer space. "China is committed to the peaceful use of outer space, and opposes any arms race in outer space or weaponizing it," Mao Ning stated. She further clarified, "China has no intention to engage in a space race with any country, nor do we seek so-called advantage in outer space."

The remarks from China were in direct response to Trump's statements made on Thursday, where he credited the US Space Force with reversing the nation's previous setbacks in space. Trump remarked, "And now we're leading China and Russia substantially," referring to the advancements made since the establishment of the Space Force.

The Space Force was created in 2019 during Trump's first term as a distinct, sixth branch of the US military, aimed at enhancing the country's capabilities and presence in outer space.