Illustration: Liu Rui/GT

The Philippines' intention to buy strategic and aggressive anti-missile and intermediate-range missile systems from the US is a "provocative" and "dangerous" move, as well as an extremely irresponsible choice for both the Philippines and the peoples of Southeast Asia, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said on Thursday.

The Spokesperson for the Armed Forces of the Philippines stated that the military is considering the procurement of the "Typhon" intermediate-range missile launch system, the Financial Times reported Sunday. Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro said, "We do intend to acquire such capabilities. We will not compromise our right to obtain these kinds of capabilities in the future within our territory."

Lin pointed out that the Philippines' plan to buy strategic and aggressive anti-missile and intermediate-range missile systems is a "provocative" and "dangerous" move that colludes with external forces to escalate regional tension, stir geopolitical confrontation, and stimulate an arms race. This is an extremely irresponsible choice for both the Philippines and the peoples of Southeast Asia, as well as for regional security.

This region needs peace and prosperity, not missiles and confrontation. China again urges the Philippines to heed the calls of regional countries and peoples, to correct its actions promptly, to withdraw the "Typhon" missile system in line with previous commitments, and to avoid further deviation onto the wrong path, Lin noted. 

Global Times