At a regular press briefing on Tuesday, the Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun voiced strong opposition to using the South China Sea dispute as a pretext for strengthening military alliances or mounting targeted deployments.
His remarks followed Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s recent visit to the United States, where both sides reaffirmed that the U.S.-Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty applies to the South China Sea. Plans announced include deepening military cooperation, potential deployment of U.S. intermediate-range missiles, co-construction of ammunition depots, and a reported sale of six Abukuma-class destroyer escorts from Japan to the Philippines.
Guo emphasized that these moves will not resolve any disputes nor deter China. He warned they run counter to the Asia-Pacific community’s shared aspirations for peace, development, and stability.
While acknowledging every nation’s right to pursue defense partnerships, Guo stressed such arrangements should not target third parties, interfere in maritime disputes, or provoke confrontation.
He urged the Philippine side to stop heightening tensions, shifting blame, and drawing in external forces, calling on Manila to adopt a truly independent foreign policy and take concrete steps to uphold regional peace and stability.
Reference(s):
China opposes using South China Sea issue to bolster military alliance
cgtn.com
