Beijing: The US Has No Right to Intervene in Disputes Between China and the Philippines

The Chinese Foreign Ministry stated on Thursday that "the United States has no right to interfere in issues between China and the Philippines." In response to a question about US statements asserting that it would defend the Philippines, ministry spokesperson Mao Ning remarked, "The United States is not a party to the South China Sea issue and has no right to intervene in a problem between China and the Philippines." She added, "The US commitment to defend the Philippines should not harm China's sovereignty and maritime interests in the South China Sea, nor should it enable or encourage the Philippines' unlawful claims." US President Joe Biden stated on Wednesday at the White House that "America's commitment to defending the Philippines remains 'firm'" after accusing China of acting "recklessly and unlawfully" in the South China Sea. Biden further stated in a joint meeting with the Australian Prime Minister that "any attack on Philippine aircraft, ships, or armed forces will invoke the mutual defense treaty with the Philippines."