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The US State Department has criticized China's designation of a 'nature reserve' around Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea, calling it a unilateral attempt to assert sovereignty and block Filipino fishermen. Washington reaffirmed its support for the Philippines and a free and open Indo-Pacific.
The Commander of the Vietnam People's Air Force has pledged unwavering protection of national sovereignty and territorial integrity against any aggression. The statement, made amid regional tensions, emphasizes high combat readiness and inter-branch coordination.
China has barred Philippine Defense Minister Gilberto Teodoro and his family from entering the country, accusing him of harming bilateral relations over South China Sea remarks. The ban extends to Hong Kong and Macau and prohibits any transactions with him.
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth urged China to respect longstanding American positions in Asia, citing rising tensions over security and trade in the Indo-Pacific. He stressed mutual respect as essential for regional stability. Beijing has yet to officially respond.
The recent US-China summit was seen as prioritizing stability over confrontation, but many critical strategic issues remain unresolved, alarming regional allies like Japan. Key concerns include security in the South China Sea and Indian Ocean, and a lack of concrete economic agreements.
Japan and the Philippines have announced plans to begin negotiations on a defense intelligence-sharing pact, aiming to bolster security cooperation in response to China's growing military activities in the region. The agreement would enhance joint operational capabilities and information sharing on various security threats.
Critics of US-Philippines military cooperation argue that Manila's close alignment with Washington could turn the country into a target. This year's Balikatan exercise, involving over 17,000 troops from six nations, has sparked concerns among activists and local communities. The drills have also drawn China's warning against regional division and confrontation.
Japan is considering exporting its Type 88 anti-ship missile system to the Philippines, a source said Friday. The move aligns with Tokyo's security strategy to support regional allies and is expected to boost defense cooperation amid South China Sea tensions.
The Philippine presidential spokesperson affirmed that the country will reconstruct the B1 Bridge but will not completely demolish the existing structure. The project is located in a disputed area in the South China Sea, and the statement aims to clarify the government's position on preserving existing infrastructure. The remarks come amid heightened regional tensions, with the Philippines seeking to reassure stakeholders.
