China remains committed to ‘no first use’ principle 60 years after testing its first atomic bomb

China successfully detonated its first atomic bomb 60 years ago on October 16, 1964.  The bomb, code-named “Miss Qiu”, exploded in the remote Lop Nur desert in Xinjiang. The fission chain reaction melted a 120 metre (394ft) iron tower. It was a defining and pivotal moment in China’s pursuit of nuclear capabilities. Hours after the detonation, the Chinese government pledged to “never, at any time or under any circumstances, be the first to use nuclear weapons”.