By Necva Tastan
ISTANBUL (AA) – China said on Wednesday that the joint sea and air patrols by the Philippines and the US in the disputed South China Sea “should not harm" its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights.”
“The Philippines-US joint patrol must not hurt China’s territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests,” said Mao Ning, spokeswoman for China's Foreign Ministry.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines and the US forces are conducting three-day maritime exercises from Tuesday.
It aims to enhance "interoperability and fostering regional cooperation between the long-standing allies," the Philippines army said in a statement.