The Japanese government has officially disclosed its opposition to North Korea’s plan to send a satellite into orbit.

While in Beijing Sunday, Japanese Foreign Minister Hirofumi Nakasone said the North’s launch of either an experimental communications satellite or any kind of ballistic missile would be in violation of U.N. resolutions.

Nakasone, who is visiting China, urged the North to abide by a 2006 U.N. resolution that bans all ballistic missile-related activities. He also said the North should exercise “restraint” and avoid escalating any regional tensions.

Nakasone’s statement marks the first time for the Japanese government to take a firm stance on the North’s planned satellite launch.