China warns against military posturing after Canada-Philippines pact

China on Monday cautioned that displays of military strength and expanded defense alliances could undermine regional peace, a day after the Philippines and Canada formalized a new military cooperation agreement. The pact allows mutual troop deployments and closer defense coordination between the two countries.

Beijing urges restraint

Speaking at a press briefing in Beijing, Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said China believes defense partnerships “should not be directed at any third party or infringe upon others’ interests.” She added, “Flexing military muscle and provoking confrontation are not conducive to regional peace and stability.”

New defense deal between Manila and Ottawa

The Status of Visiting Forces Agreement (SOVFA), signed in Makati City on Sunday, was concluded following talks between Philippine Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro and Canadian Defense Minister David McGuinty. The deal represents the fifth such agreement for the Philippines, following similar accords with the US, Australia, Japan, and New Zealand.

Manila’s growing security network

Teodoro said the Philippines’ expanding network of defense partners exposes what he called “China’s true intentions,” according to local media. He accused Beijing of “seeking to extend its reach far beyond its borders,” urging China to “withdraw from the West Philippine Sea.”

Regional tensions continue to rise

Over the weekend, Teodoro also met with defense chiefs from the US, Australia, and Japan in Malaysia, voicing support for the creation of an Indo-Pacific Chiefs of Defense Cooperation Council. The diplomatic activity comes amid ongoing disputes in the South China Sea, where China claims sovereignty over nearly the entire area — a stance contested by several Southeast Asian nations, including the Philippines.