BEIJING, Feb. 7 -- China expressed regrets after the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) launched an earth-observation satellite Sunday morning, calling for calmness to avoid further escalation of tensions on the Korean Peninsula.

"The DPRK should have been entitled to peaceful use of outer space, but this right is currently restricted by the United Nations Security Council resolutions," said Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying, in response to a question on the DPRK's announcement on the launch of satellite Kwangmyongsong-4.

China was regretful that the DPRK insisted on launching the satellite, based on the ballistic missile technology, despite universal opposition of the international community, the spokesperson said.

Hua called all sides concerned to "remain calm, act cautiously, prevent from taking moves that could further increase tensions on the peninsula, and make joint efforts to safeguard regional peace and stability."

"China always holds that the way to long-lasting peace and stability on the peninsula can be found only through dialogues and consultations," Hua said, urging all sides concerned to resume contact and dialogue as soon as possible.