U.S. Mid-Range Missile System Deployment in the Philippines Sparks China's Opposition

In early July, the Armed Forces of the Philippines announced that the U.S. mid-range missile system, recently deployed in the country, is set to be shipped out soon. This system was brought in as part of the preparations for the annual joint military exercises known as "Balikatan." By September or even earlier, the land-based missile system will be completely removed from the Philippines.

China's Strong Opposition

China's Ministry of National Defense has voiced strong opposition to the U.S. missile system in the region. Spokesperson Zhang Xiaogang highlighted that the mid-range missile system is a throwback to the Cold War era and should never have been deployed in the first place. Zhang called on both the U.S. and the Philippines to honour their commitments and ensure the missile system is removed permanently, not just temporarily.

U.S. Withdrawal from Arms Control Agreements

Zhang Xiaogang also pointed out that the U.S. has a history of withdrawing from various arms control treaties and organizations in recent years. According to Zhang, these actions have significantly weakened the international efforts towards arms control and disarmament. He criticized the U.S. for pressuring its allies and partners into military arrangements that could lead to increased tensions and confrontations, which in turn, threaten regional peace and stability.

Call for Peace and Stability

China's stance is clear: they are firmly against the deployment of such strategic offensive weapons in the region. Zhang urged the U.S. and the Philippines to respect the local populations' desire for peace and development. He called for actions that promote regional peace and stability, rather than steps that might lead to further military tension and conflict.