China said it is hoping that the possible expansion of military agreement between the Philippines and Germany would contribute to peace in the region.
Wang Wenbin, China's Foreign Ministry, said Wednesday, March 13, that this is Beijing's "consistent position" with regards to defense pacts being entered into by its neighbors.
"We hope that cooperation between relevant countries is conducive to peace, stability and development of the region," Wang said.
In Berlin to expand the Philippines' ties with Germany, President Marcos expressed interest in enhancing partnership to include cyber security and maritime domain concerns.
In a joint press conference with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Marcos said he wanted defense cooperation to extend "beyond training" amid tensions in the West Philippine Sea.
Germany has been providing training for the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) since 1974, making it the Philippines' second oldest formal defense partner.