Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning

In response to the Philippine military’s plan to acquire the US Typhon mid-range missile system, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning stated at a regular press conference on Monday that the Chinese side has repeatedly elaborated its solemn stance of firm opposition on the US’ deployment of mid-range missiles in the Philippines.

I want to reiterate that the introduction by the Philippines of such a mid-range missile system, which is both strategic and offensive, is a provocative and dangerous move in coordination with external forces to create regional tensions, incites geopolitical confrontation, and provokes an arms race. This is an extremely irresponsible decision for the people of the Philippines, Southeast Asian countries, the history, and regional security, Mao said.

The region needs peace and prosperity, not mid-range missiles and confrontation. We once again urge the Philippine side to heed the voices of regional countries and their people, correct this wrong move as soon as possible, and withdraw the Typhon missile system in accordance with previous public commitments, so as not to continue down the wrong path, the spokesperson said.

Global Times