The Chinese Ministry of National Defense has issued a stern warning against what it characterizes as destabilizing military activities in the South China Sea. During a Saturday press briefing, Defense Spokesperson Zhang Xiaogang articulated China’s firm position regarding recent multilateral naval exercises conducted near Huangyan Island.
Zhang specifically referenced joint patrol operations involving the Philippines, United States, Japan, and Australia, describing these activities as deliberate provocations that generate regional tensions. The spokesperson criticized what he termed ‘external forces’ for traveling great distances to demonstrate military capabilities in waters China considers under its sovereign jurisdiction.
The defense official particularly singled out the Philippines for allegedly instigating maritime conflicts through external alliances and repeated infringements on Chinese territorial claims. ‘The Philippines operates as both a troublemaker and peace disruptor through its consistent pattern of behavior,’ Zhang stated unequivocally.
Rejecting recent joint statements from the Philippines and United States that suggested Chinese activities adversely affect regional stability, Zhang reaffirmed China’s ‘indisputable sovereignty’ over South China Sea islands and adjacent waters. He characterized China’s maritime operations as ‘legitimate, lawful, professional, and restrained’ measures to protect sovereign rights.
The Chinese military remains on high alert status and will implement decisive countermeasures against any perceived infringements or provocations, according to the defense spokesperson. Zhang concluded by emphasizing China’s unwavering commitment to prevent any successful attempts to undermine South China Sea stability, vowing to protect regional peace through determined action.