In response to the Philippine army’s statements in acquiring the US Typhon missile system to protect its maritime interests, the Chinese Foreign Ministry reiterated its firm opposition to this initiative.

Spokeswoman Mao Ning stressed that the presence of this equipment increases regional tensions and fosters geopolitical confrontation and an arms race.

“The region needs peace and prosperity, not intermediate-range missiles and confrontation,” the spokeswoman stressed.

Mao Ning urged the Philippine government to reconsider its decision and withdraw the Typhon missile system as soon as possible, in compliance with previous commitments and for the sake of regional stability.

“We urge the Philippines not to go down the wrong path and to address the concerns of the countries and peoples of the region,” he concluded.

The U.S.-developed Typhon missile system is an intermediate-range offensive weapon that has raised concerns in several Asian countries because of its potential to alter the strategic balance in the region.

China has repeatedly expressed its opposition to the deployment of this type of weapon in nearby territories because such actions increase the risk of conflict and negatively affect regional security.

jrr/abo/jcm/idm