China: US interactions must not be ‘damaging’ to other nations’ interests

FILE PHOTO: Chinese and U.S. flags flutter outside a company building in Shanghai, China November 16, 2021. REUTERS/Aly Song/File Photo

MANILA, Philippines — Interactions of the United States (US) must not be “damaging” to the interests of other nations, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said Tuesday.

“We are not against the US’s interaction with regional countries. But it should be good for regional peace and stability and not damaging other countries’ interests,” he said in a statement.

This came as US Vice President Kamala Harris is in the Philippines and went to Palawan – an island province adjacent to the disputed Spratly Islands in the West Philippine Sea – where the Philippine Coast Guard is set to brief her on border patrols and security. She is anticipated to likewise talk about climate change which has been affecting fisherfolk while in Palawan.

READ: VP Harris in Manila; visit seen to reset PH-US ties

To recall, China has constructed artificial islands across the Spratlys.

READ: New photos of China-made islands in Spratlys show scale of military buildup

During her courtesy call on President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Monday, November 20, Harris reaffirms the commitment of the US to defend the Philippines if attacked over the South China Sea row.

RELATED STORY

Harris reaffirms US vow to defend PH if attacked over South China Sea row