BEIJING (AP) — China is expressing its unhappiness that Pyongyang tested a long-range rocket despite deep concerns over the launch among its neighbors.

Foreign Ministry spokesman Hong Lei told reporters Wednesday: ‘‘We express regret at (North Korea's) launch in spite of the extensive concerns of the international community.’’

Hong says China ‘‘believes U.N. Security Council reaction should be prudent and moderate and conducive to maintaining stability and avoiding escalation of the situation.’’