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China cautioned the United States on Thursday against escalating tensions in the Asia-Pacific region, following discussions about establishing a weapons base in the Philippines. A defense coalition led by the U.S. recently agreed to evaluate the feasibility of creating a new ammunition assembly and production line in the Philippines. This initiative involves the 16-member Partnership for Indo-Pacific Industrial Resilience (PIPIR), which includes nations such as Britain, Australia, Japan, South Korea, and the Philippines.

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China's foreign ministry expressed concerns that the proposed facility could destabilize the region, warning of negative repercussions. Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian urged the U.S. and its allies to respect the region's desire for peace and avoid instigating conflict. He cautioned that any willingness to transform a country into an "ammunition depot" could have adverse consequences.

The relationship between China and the Philippines has been contentious, particularly over territorial disputes in the South China Sea. Despite an international ruling against China's expansive claims over the waterway, tensions remain high. Lin affirmed China's commitment to defending its territorial sovereignty and security interests, reported Philstar.

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now · Philstar · 26 Mar 2026

Poor old Donald. It never rains but it pours.

3 minutes ago, Bannoi said:

Poor old Donald. It never rains but it pours.

Do you really believe he values Xi's opinion on this issue?

3 minutes ago, Effective altruism said:

Do you really believe he values Xi's opinion on this issue?

Of course not Trump believes there is only one opinion worth anything his. He just sticks his fingers in his ears and goes La La La La La I'm not listening I know best there is no-one that knows anything better than me. I don't need advisers I HAVE HUNCHES. (and tariffs)

1 minute ago, Bannoi said:

Of course not Trump believes there is only one opinion worth anything his. He just sticks his fingers in his ears and goes La La La La La I'm not listening I know best there is no-one that knows anything better than me. I don't need advisers I HAVE HUNCHES. (and tariffs)

Why would anyone care about Xi's opinion on this topic?

13 minutes ago, Effective altruism said:

Why would anyone care about Xi's opinion on this topic

I would appear that my original post got somewhat lost in translation from proper English to American English.

It's called sarcasm.