1. The missile tests are expected to be the start of a series of military exercises, including simulated beach landings. 2. Although Bush did not refer to the missile test, Putin and US Secretary of State Colin L. Powell, who is traveling with Bush, both scolded Pakistan. 3. Although deeply concerned by the Chinese missile tests near Taiwan, Japan and other countries in the region are carefully avoiding any strong criticism for fear of offending China. 4. Because there was no Navy ship conducting missile tests within striking distance that night. 5. Both sides understand that the deadline for reaching a deal is nearing, with a pending schedule of missile tests that would violate the treat. 6. A missile test would not violate any international treaty or agreement with the United States. 7. A round of missile tests ended last week. 8. A State Department official stressed that the missile tests were not acts of war or terror. 9. A year ago, the U.S. stationed two aircraft carrier groups off Taiwan while China conducted live missile tests and military exercises in the region. 10. Bush has long said he would extricate the United States from the missile treaty if it hampers his ability to conduct extensive missile shield tests. |