Beijing: China on Monday criticized the joint military exercises between the United States and the Philippines, claiming they "undermine regional strategic stability." The drills, which commenced in the disputed South China Sea, have sparked concerns from Beijing about their potential impact on regional peace and economic growth prospects.

According to Anadolu Agency, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun expressed concerns over the exercises, which he described as a collusion between the Philippines and external countries. Guo accused the participating nations of deploying strategic and tactical weapons that jeopardize regional stability. His remarks were in response to a statement from a Filipino military general who referred to the annual 'Balikatan' exercise with the US as a "rehearsal for their defense."

The 'Balikatan' drills, known as the 'Super Bowl' of military exercises in the region, involve approximately 18,000 troops from the US and the Philippines. This year's activities include an integrated air and missile defense simulation, which will be attended by President Ferdinand Marcos of the Philippines. The exercises are taking place from April 21 to May 9 in the Luzon Strait, situated between the Philippines' Luzon Island and Taiwan.

Beijing contends that the joint drills have positioned the Philippines against other regional countries, leading to strong resentment and opposition. Guo emphasized that the Taiwan question is an internal matter for China and urged Manila and Washington to avoid provoking tensions. He warned that any actions related to Taiwan could result in severe consequences, stating that "those who play with fire will inevitably burn themselves."

The drills feature the inaugural deployment of the US Marine Corps regiment equipped with Naval Strike Missiles in the Philippines. These missiles, with a reported operational range of over 185 kilometers, are being positioned strategically in the waters between Taiwan and the Philippines.

During the opening ceremony in Manila, US Marine Corps Lt. Gen. James Glynn underscored the importance of upholding the mutual defense treaty between the US and the Philippines, which has been in place since 1951. He emphasized the unmatched capability of both nations to defend their interests. Philippine Maj. Gen. Francisco Lorenzo highlighted that the exercises aim to bolster the country's ability to address "contemporary security challenges."

In addition to the US and the Philippines, other countries, including Australia and Japan, have also sent smaller contingents to participate in the drills.