China condemns Japan's missile launch during Balikatan drills

China has condemned Japan’s launch of offensive missiles outside its territory, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said.

A day earlier, Japan’s Self-Defence Forces (SDF) launched Type 88 missiles during the joint Balikatan military exercises with the United States and the Philippines. It marked the first such missile launch by Japan since World War II, according to foreign media.

Lin Jian said Japan bears historical responsibility for colonialism in Southeast Asian countries, including the Philippines.

He added that under the guise of “security cooperation,” Tokyo is deploying military forces abroad.

The Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson also urged Japan to faithfully fulfil its obligations in the areas of military affairs and security.

By Jeyhun Aghazada