China has opposed the US’ deployment of its mid-range capability missile system, which it is now pulling out after the conclusion of its largest war games with the Philippines.
Mao Ning, spokesperson for China’s Foreign Ministry, said Washington’s action “gravely threatens regional countries’ security, undermines regional peace and stability, and goes against pursuit of people in the region for peace and development.”
“As we have previously stressed, the deployment is a move to turn back the wheel of history,” Mao also said in her press conference in Beijing Friday.
On Thursday, July 4, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said the US is pulling out its Mid-Range Capability missile system, which can fire the Standard Missile 6 (SM-6) and the Tomahawk Land Attack Missile, which it deployed during the Balikatan Exercises in April.
The Chinese military had already expressed opposition to the US’ deployment, warning that Beijing’s restraint has “limits.”
“We urge relevant countries to listen to the call of countries in the region and step back from the wrong path as soon as possible,” Mao said.