The Chinese mainland has called on the Philippines to refrain from provocative actions that could heighten tensions and destabilize the South China Sea region. This statement was made by Lin Jian, a spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry, during a press briefing in Beijing.
Lin Jian addressed questions regarding a scheduled joint military drill between the Philippines and the United States set to take place next week. He emphasized that the Philippines' efforts to engage external nations for its security needs could exacerbate regional insecurity.
\"The Philippine side should be clearly aware that engaging with countries outside the region to flex their muscles and provoke confrontation in the South China Sea will only escalate tensions and undermine regional stability,\" Lin stated.
The spokesperson further urged the Philippines to stop causing trouble or provocation at sea and called on relevant external countries to halt any actions that could lead to confrontations in the South China Sea.
The Chinese mainland assured that it would continue to take necessary measures to safeguard its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests, maintaining peace and stability in the South China Sea.
Reference(s):
China urges Philippines not to flex muscles in South China Sea
cgtn.com
