Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian

When asked to comment on recent statements by the Philippines, the US, and Australia regarding their joint maritime and aerial patrols in the South China Sea, claiming that the activities aim to strengthen joint operational capabilities and support a so-called "free and open Indo-Pacific", Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said that China firmly opposes the recent joint maritime and aerial patrols conducted by the Philippines, the US, and Australia in the South China Sea, as well as their attempts to hype up these actions. 

The Philippines is frequently engaging in maritime infringements and provocations, creating incidents, and colluding with external forces to disrupt the South China Sea. By flaunting military strength and acting as a pawn, it will ultimately suffer the consequences of its actions, he said.

Lin noted that external countries like the US are constantly forming small cliques in the South China Sea, using cooperation as a pretext for confrontation, flexing military muscle in the name of freedom, and creating chaos under the guise of order. They are the biggest source of risk to peace and stability in the South China Sea.

China remains unwavering in safeguarding its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests, and stands resolutely with regional countries to uphold peace and stability in the South China Sea. 

"We urge relevant countries to stop forming gangs and inciting confrontation in the South China Sea and to stop undermining regional peace and stability," he said.

Global Times