In a recent online briefing, spokesperson Zhang Xiaogang from China’s Ministry of National Defense condemned the Philippines for allowing the deployment of the US Typhon intermediate-range missile system on its soil. Zhang argued that hosting the missile system not only endangers the country’s own security and the well-being of its citizens but also destabilizes peace in the region, labeling the decision as both absurd and extremely dangerous.
During the briefing, Zhang responded to remarks from US and Philippine officials that have linked the missile system deployment with strategic repositioning in the South China Sea. He criticized what he sees as the Philippines treating its national interests as a bargaining chip, a move that ultimately hands over critical defense responsibilities to the United States and increases the likelihood of a regional arms race.
Highlighting recent developments, Zhang noted that the US Indo-Pacific Command had acknowledged relocating the Typhon system from one site on Luzon to another, clarifying that this shift does not guarantee a permanent deployment. Despite this, the Philippine government has indicated a willingness to return the system to the US if China ceases its territorial claims and aggressive actions against Filipino fishermen and vessels.
Zhang reaffirmed China's long-standing opposition to the installation of what he described as an offensive and strategic weapon on Philippine soil. He also reiterated that, according to international treaties such as those from 1898, 1900, and 1930, territories like the South China Sea's Nansha and Huangyan Islands do not fall under Philippine jurisdiction. In closing, Zhang warned that leveraging the missile system deployment as a negotiation chip risks significant geopolitical confrontation, urging the Philippines to remove the system promptly and return to dialogue and consultations to ensure regional stability.
5 Comments
Karamba
The Typhon missile system is a defensive measure, not an offensive one. It's meant to deter, not to attack.
Rotfront
China is offering a peaceful solution to the dispute by proposing dialogue and consultations. The Philippines should accept this offer instead of continuing down a path that leads to war.
Matzomaster
The Philippines is a sovereign nation and has the right to choose its own allies. The Typhon missile system is a testament to the growing defense partnership between the Philippines and the United States.
Rotfront
It is time for the Philippines to abandon its alliance with the United States and work with China to create a more peaceful and prosperous region.
Karamba
Hosting the Typhon missile system will only increase tensions in the region and make it more likely for conflict to occur. The Philippines should focus on dialogue and diplomacy instead.