MANILA: The Philippines has denied any intention to interfere in China’s affairs with Taiwan, following accusations from Beijing’s ambassador to Manila that the Southeast Asian nation was fueling regional tensions.
Manila had recently granted the US entry to four more strategic locations, with three facing north towards Taiwan and one near an island in the disputed South China Sea.
The announcement comes at a time of increasing geopolitical tension over the self-ruled Taiwan state and concerns over China’s conduct in the resource-rich waterway it claims almost entirely.
“The National Security Council (NSC) wants to clarify that the Philippines do not intend to interfere in the Taiwan conflict and will not allow itself to be used by other nations to interfere in the said issue,” said NSC spokesperson, assistant director-general Jonathan Malaya.
He added that the increased security cooperation between Philippines and the US was meant to develop the capabilities of the Philippine military.
China accuses Philippines of fueling geopolitical tensions
Meanwhile, Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Huang Xilian accused Manila of fueling geopolitical tensions in the Asia-Pacific, warning that the US could use its expanded military base access to interfere in the situation across the Taiwan Strait.
The Philippines’ Foreign Ministry has not yet commented on Huang’s statement. However, his comments have sparked anger among Filipinos, with lawmakers calling for his expulsion.
The Philippines’ statement came amid growing regional tensions over Taiwan and the South China Sea. China has been increasingly aggressive in its territorial claims, including through the creation of artificial islands in the disputed waters.
The US has repeatedly challenged Beijing’s claims and has increased its military presence in the region to counter Chinese aggression.
