Beijing: China on Tuesday called on the United States and the Philippines, both bound by a security treaty, to ensure their alliance does not target or harm the interests of other countries. Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun emphasized this stance during a news conference in Beijing, addressing the ongoing cooperation between the US and the Philippines.

According to Anadolu Agency, Guo's remarks came in response to questions regarding the US's reaffirmed commitment to Philippine security. This commitment was highlighted during a meeting in Washington, DC, between US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth and Filipino President Ferdinand Marcos. The Philippines, being Washington's oldest military ally in the Asia-Pacific, hosts US soldiers and grants access to its military bases.

The US and the Philippines have maintained a mutual defense treaty since 1951. During his meeting with President Marcos, Hegseth stated, "Our storied alliance has never been stronger or more essential than it is today. Together, we remain committed to the mutual defense treaty."

Tensions have been notable between China and the Philippines in the mineral-rich South China Sea, where both nations have overlapping territorial claims. The region has been the site of several encounters between vessels from both countries.