Photo credit: U.S. Embassy in the Philippines

China reiterated its stance on Tuesday, declaring that the United States had "no right" to meddle in the South China Sea affairs. This statement came in response to Secretary of State Antony Blinken's assurance of defending the Philippines against armed aggression in the disputed region.

Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian emphasized during a press conference in Beijing that the United States was not a stakeholder in the South China Sea disputes and should refrain from intervening in maritime matters between China and the Philippines.

Blinken's visit to Manila, part of his Asia tour, aimed to reinforce US commitments to its regional allies amidst tensions with China. However, China warned against any military cooperation between the US and the Philippines that could undermine its sovereignty and maritime interests in the South China Sea.

Lin Jian affirmed that China would continue taking necessary measures to defend its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights in the region while striving to maintain peace and stability. China's claims in the South China Sea conflict with those of several Southeast Asian nations, including the Philippines, despite an international ruling dismissing Beijing's assertions as unfounded.