China's foreign minister warns Philippines about U.S. missile deployment
- In Reports
- 04:42 PM, Jul 27, 2024
- Myind Staff
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has cautioned the Philippines regarding the U.S. deployment of intermediate-range missiles, suggesting that it might escalate regional tensions and trigger an arms race. Earlier this year, the United States stationed its Typhon missile system in the Philippines for joint military exercises. Although the missile system was not used during the drills, a Philippine military official confirmed its presence but did not specify its duration in the country.
China-Philippines relations are at a critical juncture and dialogue and consultation are essential, Wang Yi told Philippine Foreign Secretary Enrique Manalo during their meeting on Friday in Vientiane, Laos. Wang noted that the bilateral relationship is encountering difficulties because the Philippines has "repeatedly breached the agreements and its own commitments," as stated by the Chinese foreign ministry.
"If the Philippines introduces the U.S. intermediate-range missile system, it will create tension and confrontation in the region and trigger an arms race, which is completely not in line with the interests and wishes of the Filipino people," Wang said.
The Philippines' military and foreign ministry did not immediately respond to requests for comment on Wang Yi's remarks. China and the Philippines are engaged in a standoff in the South China Sea, with tensions escalating as Beijing continues to assert its claims over disputed shoals within Manila's exclusive economic zone.
Wang Yi mentioned that China has recently established a temporary arrangement with the Philippines for the transportation and replenishment of humanitarian supplies to Ren'ai Jiao, also known as the Second Thomas Shoal, to help stabilise the maritime situation. According to a statement from the Philippine foreign ministry, Philippine vessels completed their latest mission to the shoal on Saturday without any issues.
Image source: Reuters
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