Beijing, China — China has sharply criticized the United States for deploying a mid-range missile system in the Philippines, asserting that the move threatens the security of the entire Asia-Pacific region.
Chinese defense spokesperson Wu Qian addressed the issue on Thursday, expressing strong opposition. “The Chinese side is highly vigilant against and firmly opposed to this,” Wu stated, referring to the U.S. deployment of the Typhon Mid-Range Capability missile system under the guise of military exercises.
This marks the first time since the end of the Cold War that the U.S. has stationed such a missile system overseas in the Asia-Pacific. Wu warned that the actions of the U.S. and the Philippines heighten the risk of conflict and could severely disrupt regional peace and stability.
“The mid-range missile system is a strategic offensive weapon reminiscent of the Cold War,” Wu noted. “The U.S. attempts to turn back the wheel of history, provoke bloc confrontation, strengthen military alliances, and squeeze the security space of other countries. This will break the strategic balance in the region and create new tension and antagonism.”
Wu also criticized the Philippines for aligning closely with U.S. military strategies, suggesting that such actions diverge from the guiding principles of ASEAN countries. “By doing so, the Philippines severely undercuts the principles of the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia and undermines the ASEAN-led architecture of regional cooperation,” he said.
Issuing a stern warning, Wu added, “Those who invite wolves into their house will get bitten, and those who pull chestnuts out of the fire for others can only get themselves burned.” He urged both the U.S. and the Philippines to respect the security concerns of neighboring countries and to immediately cease what he termed “dangerous acts.”
The situation has drawn international attention, with analysts expressing concerns over escalating tensions in a region vital to global trade and security. The deployment raises questions about the future of U.S.-China relations and the balance of power in the Asia-Pacific.
Reference(s):
China denounces U.S. deployment of missile system in the Philippines
cgtn.com
