China urges Philippines to return to 'peaceful development'

26/12/2024 16:43

China's foreign ministry on Thursday urged the Philippines to return to "peaceful development", saying Manila's decision to deploy a U.S. medium-range missile system in military exercises would only bring the risks of an arms race in the region.



The U.S. Typhon system, which can be equipped with cruise missiles capable of striking Chinese targets, was brought in for joint exercises earlier this year.

On Tuesday, Philippine Defence Minister Gilberto Teodoro said the Typhon's deployment for joint exercises was "legitimate, legal and beyond reproach". Army chief Roy Galido said on Monday that the Philippines was also planning to acquire its own mid-range missile system.



Rivalry between China and the Philippines has grown in recent years over their competing claims in the South China Sea. Longtime treaty allies Manila and Washington have also deepened military ties, further ratcheting up tensions.



"By cooperating with the United States in the introduction of Typhon, the Philippine side has surrendered its own security and national defence to others and introduced the risk of geopolitical confrontation and an arms race in the region, posing a substantial threat to regional peace and security," said Mao Ning, a spokesperson at China's foreign ministry.