China urges US-Philippines military cooperation not to aim at others

The Chinese Defense Ministry on Thursday urged the United States and the Philippines not to aim at others and impair others' interests when conducting military cooperation.

"The joint patrols between the United States and the Philippines in the South China Sea has led to militarization in the region, which is harmful to regional peace and stability," said a statement of the Chinese Defense Ministry.

The statement came after the United States said Thursday it had launched joint South China Sea patrols with the Philippines and that 275 troops and five attack aircraft will remain in the Philippines temporarily.

"The Chinese military will pay close attention to the situation, and resolutely defend China's territorial sovereignty and maritime interests," said the statement.

The ministry said the United States and the Philippines' strengthening military alliance, increasing frontline military deployment and holding joint military drills with specific targets reflected cold-war mentality. It went against peace and stability in the South China Sea.

"We urge the parties concerned to sincerely respect the regional countries' efforts to maintain peace and stability in the South China Sea," said the statement.

Source: XINHUA