China Calls on U.S. and Allies to Cease Misinformation in Maritime Disputes

A spokesperson from the Chinese Foreign Ministry on Tuesday voiced strong dissatisfaction and firm opposition to a recent joint statement delivered by the defense chiefs of the United States, Japan, Australia, and the Philippines. The joint announcement, made during the 22nd Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore on May 31, included a pledge to intensify maritime defense cooperation in a move China perceives as directly targeting its interests.

At a regular press conference held in Beijing, spokesperson Lin Jian openly criticized what he described as U.S.-led efforts to "hype up the so-called China threat" while "stoking confrontation" over longstanding disputes in the East China Sea and South China Sea. Lin stressed that China has already lodged serious diplomatic representations in response to the joint declaration, underlining Beijing’s deep concerns regarding the evolving security dynamics in the region.

Lin reiterated that the formation of exclusive blocs is emblematic of a "Cold War mentality" that is now obsolete and at odds with the aspirations of nations in the Asia-Pacific region. “Such actions are not only outdated but also run counter to the prevailing trend of peaceful development,” he stated, adding that “bloc politics and group confrontation are unwelcome in the region and will do nothing to solve problems or intimidate China.”

During his remarks, the spokesperson reaffirmed China’s unwavering determination to safeguard its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests. He emphasized that efforts to “smear China and misrepresent facts” will not succeed, and called on the U.S. and its allies to halt activities that could inflame tensions or undermine regional stability.

“We urge the United States and its allies to cease forming exclusive cliques and interfering with efforts by regional countries to resolve disputes through dialogue and consultation,” Lin stated emphatically. He also called for a halt to any actions that might undermine the shared pursuit of peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific, reiterating China’s willingness to work with neighboring countries to address differences peacefully and constructively.