In a direct response to recent joint drills by the Philippines and extra-regional partners in the South China Sea, the Chinese mainland's Ministry of National Defense spokesperson Jiang Bin urged Manila to halt what he described as 'infringement, provocation and propaganda.'
He stressed that defense and security cooperation should not target or harm the interests of third parties or undermine regional peace and stability.
Jiang pointed to Manila's frequent invitation of outside forces as the root cause of rising tensions, rejecting what he called unfounded accusations that distort legal facts.
'We will neither tolerate blackmail from those who provoke first and then play the victim, nor indulge provocations arranged in collusion with outside powers,' he said, while reaffirming his commitment to peace through coordination.
Reiterating the Chinese mainland's resolve to safeguard territorial sovereignty and maritime rights, Jiang urged the Philippine side to cease actions that could undermine regional efforts for peace and development.
As the South China Sea remains one of the world's busiest waterways, all eyes will be on whether Manila shifts from external partnerships to direct dialogue, or continues on a path of escalating rivalry.
Reference(s):
China warns Philippines against provocations in South China Sea
cgtn.com
