Ministry of National Defense: Oppose external interference and muscle flexing in the South China Sea

Question: According to reports, the US and the Philippines are conducting Balikatan 2024, an annual bilateral joint exercise in the South China Sea. The Philippine Coast Guard has joined the exercise for the first time. Philippine senior officials said they intended to invite the Japan Self-Defense Forces to participate in the exercise next year. What’s your comment on this？

Wu Qian: It requires great wisdom to resolve the South China Sea issue. Drawing forces outside the region or countries not directly concerned into the issue will only further complicate the situation and make it harder to solve. China always advocates the vision of common, comprehensive, cooperative, and sustainable security. We believe differences should be properly handled through dialogue and consultation among countries in the region. We oppose external interference, muscle flexing, provocations and harassment in the South China Sea, and oppose piecing together exclusive circles or bloc confrontation. The Chinese military is closely following relevant moves, and will resolutely respond with effective measures. We will never allow anyone to sow chaos the South China Sea.