China has doubled down on its opposition to military alliances in the South China Sea, calling recent U.S.-Philippines defense plans “provocative” and counterproductive to regional stability. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun warned Tuesday that deploying missiles or deepening military ties “will not intimidate China” and risks escalating tensions in the Asia-Pacific.
Why the Drama? 🎭
The remarks follow Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s U.S. visit, where both nations reaffirmed their Mutual Defense Treaty applies to the contested waters. Plans to station U.S. intermediate-range missiles and build shared ammunition depots—plus Japan’s reported sale of destroyer escorts to Manila—have raised eyebrows in Beijing.
Peace Over Provocation 🌏
“These moves ignore Asia-Pacific countries’ shared goals of peace and development,” Guo said, urging the Philippines to adopt an “independent foreign policy” and avoid “drawing in external forces.” He stressed defense cooperation shouldn’t target third parties or interfere in maritime disputes.
With 60% of global maritime trade passing through the South China Sea, the stakes are high. Analysts say China’s pushback reflects its broader strategy to curb foreign military influence near its shores—but whether diplomacy or deterrence wins out remains to be seen.
