MoFA On US-Philippines, NATO In Japan Rumours, VP Han's Europe Visit

(MNI) London - The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs has commented on the joint US-Philippines defence commitments in the Pacific, stating that 'we firmly oppose any country citing bilateral treaty to interfere in South China sea and undermine China's territorial interests and rights.' Adds that 'the South China Sea is the home to all regional countries, should not be a 'hunting ground' for external forces.'

• MoFA on reports NATO could set up office in Japan: 'The push for bloc confrontation calls for high vigilance. Asia shouldn't be a place for those who seek a Cold War, but a land for cooperation and development'
• MoFA: It is 'in no-one's interest to push for decoupling from China; US is taking away countries' rights to development;
• MoFA has also confirmed that Vice President Han Zheng will engage in a tour of European countries over the coming week. On 6 May he travels to the UK to attend the coronation of King Charles III, and is also expected to meet with Foreign Secretary James Cleverly. From 7-12 May he will then travel to Portugal and the Netherlands for further meetings.