China's Ministry of National Defense on Thursday urged Japan not to align with U.S. plans to deploy intermediate-range missiles in the Asia-Pacific region, citing regional security risks.
The warning was delivered by Zhang Xiaogang, the ministry spokesman, during a regular press conference.
When asked about recent reports that the U.S. army secretary had discussed the deployment of a multi-domain task force with Japan's defense minister, Zhang expressed serious concerns. Analysts have suggested that this may involve the installation of the "Typhon" intermediate-range missile system in Japan.
"We are closely monitoring the situation. The U.S. deployment of intermediate-range missiles in the Asia-Pacific region could escalate arms race, posing a severe threat to regional security and disrupting the global strategic balance and stability. China is firmly opposed to it. The Asia-Pacific needs peace and prosperity, not confrontation and conflict. We urge the U.S. side to halt the dangerous move that heightens regional tensions. Meanwhile, we would like to make it clear to Japan that it needs to exercise caution, not to invite a wolf into the house and pander to the U.S. side. Otherwise, Japan will be placing itself in a dangerous position. China would respond firmly and strongly, based on how the situation develops, and in accordance with its own needs," said Zhang.
China warns Japan not to align with U.S. in deploying missiles in Asia-Pacific
China warns Japan not to align with U.S. in deploying missiles in Asia-Pacific
