BEIJING (Reuters) – China's Foreign Ministry urged the Philippines on Thursday to return to “peaceful development,” saying Manila's decision to deploy a U.S. medium-range missile system in military exercises would only risk an arms race in the region.
The US Typhoon system, which can be equipped with cruise missiles capable of hitting Chinese targets, was brought in for joint exercises earlier this year.
Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro said on Tuesday that the deployment of Typhoon fighters for joint exercises was “legitimate, legal and cannot be blamed.” Army Chief Ruy Galido said Monday that the Philippines is also planning to acquire its own medium-range missile system.
Rivalry between China and the Philippines has increased in recent years due to their competing claims in the South China Sea. Manila and Washington, long-time treaty allies, have also deepened military ties, exacerbating tensions.
“By cooperating with the United States in introducing the Typhoon, the Philippine side has handed over its national security and defense to others and introduced the risk of geopolitical confrontation and arms race in the region, posing a major threat to regional peace and security,” said Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Mao Ning.
“We once again advise the Philippine side that the only correct choice to safeguard its security is to adhere to strategic self-government, good neighborliness and peaceful development,” Mao told reporters at a regular news conference.
She added that China will not stand idly by if its security interests are threatened.
The Philippine Embassy in Beijing did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment.
China claims almost the entire South China Sea, which is also claimed by several Southeast Asian countries including the Philippines.
