China's Strong Opposition to Philippine Acquisition of US Missile System

In a recent press briefing, the spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry, Mao Ning, addressed the Philippine military's intentions to procure the US Typhon mid-range missile system. Mao emphasized that China has consistently expressed its serious objections to the deployment of mid-range missiles by the United States in the Philippines, describing such a move as both strategic and offensive.

Mao characterized the Philippines’ introduction of the missile system as a provocative action that not only escalates tensions in the region but also contributes to geopolitical confrontations and risks triggering an arms race. He criticized this decision as irresponsible with respect to the people of the Philippines, the surrounding Southeast Asian countries, and the overall security landscape of the region.

He further called on the Philippines to listen to the perspectives of regional nations and their citizens. Mao urged the country to rectify this misstep promptly and to retract its plans for the Typhon missile system, in line with prior public commitments, in order to avoid further escalating tensions and to foster an environment conducive to peace and prosperity in the region.