China summons North Korea envoy on missiles-report

TOKYO, June 29 (Reuters) China's foreign ministry summoned North Korea's ambassador to convey Chinese fears over a possible missile launch, Kyodo news agency said today.

Tensions have risen across the region since US officials said satellite pictures indicated North Korea had begun what appeared to be preparations to launch a ballistic missile.

China's foreign ministry declined to comment on the Kyodo report.

Japan has ordered one of its warships equipped with a high-tech radar tracking system to return home early from naval exercises because of fears North Korea will launch the missile, Kyodo news agency said today.

REUTERS CH ND1528