China's Ministry of National Defense delivered a forceful rebuke to the Philippines on Thursday, cautioning against actions that 'offend China's core interests' amid escalating tensions in the South China Sea. Defense Spokesperson Zhang Xiaogang addressed concerns about China's Shandong aircraft carrier task group operating near Philippine waters during recent Manila-Washington joint drills, emphasizing the exercises were 'routine annual training.'
'This activity complies with international law and common practice,' Zhang stated, underscoring that the carrier group's maneuvers aimed to enhance 'integrated combat capabilities' without targeting specific nations.
The spokesperson criticized what he described as Philippine collusion with 'external forces' to destabilize the region, specifically condemning reported discussions about potential military exchanges between Philippine forces and personnel from the Taiwan region. 'Certain parties are playing with fire on the Taiwan question—an issue central to China's sovereignty,' Zhang warned.
Beijing reaffirmed its commitment to take 'resolute and forceful measures' to protect territorial integrity, urging Manila to 'cease infringements and provocations.' The remarks come amid heightened scrutiny of regional security dynamics and cross-strait relations.
