Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has cautioned the Philippines regarding the US intermediate-range missile deployment, suggesting that such actions could escalate regional tensions and ignite an arms race. This warning follows the deployment of the US Typhon missile system to the Philippines earlier this year as part of joint military drills. Although the missile system was not activated during the exercises, a Philippine military official confirmed its presence without specifying its duration in the country.
During a meeting with Philippine Foreign Secretary Enrique Manalo in Vientiane, Laos, Wang emphasized the need for dialogue and consultation to navigate the current challenges in China-Philippines relations. The meeting took place on the sidelines of gatherings where top diplomats from world powers convened ahead of two significant summits.
Wang attributed the strained relations to the Philippines’ repeated violations of mutual agreements and commitments. “If the Philippines introduces the US intermediate-range missile system, it will create tension and confrontation in the region and trigger an arms race, which is completely not in line with the interests and wishes of the Filipino people,” Wang stated, according to a Chinese foreign ministry release.
The Philippines’ military and foreign ministry have not yet responded to requests for comment on Wang’s remarks.
The ongoing dispute between China and the Philippines over territories in the South China Sea has intensified, particularly around contested shoals within Manila’s exclusive economic zone. Despite these tensions, Wang mentioned a recent temporary arrangement between China and the Philippines regarding the transportation and replenishment of humanitarian supplies to Ren’ai Jiao (Second Thomas Shoal), aimed at maintaining maritime stability.
The Philippine foreign ministry confirmed that Philippine vessels successfully completed their latest mission to the shoal without impediment on Saturday. This development underscores the complexity of China-Philippines relations as both nations navigate their respective interests and commitments in the region.