Kathmandu— The Chinese Foreign Ministry on Friday accused Philippines’ Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. of harming bilateral relations and the interests of the Philippine people through repeated attacks and smears against China. Spokesperson Guo Jiakun responded to recent accusations by Teodoro that China is targeting Filipinos in response to law enforcement operations against Chinese nationals, calling them “simple extortion and blackmail.” The spokesperson maintained that China’s actions are lawful and do not target any specific country.

Philippine Accusations And China's Response

Teodoro recently accused China of taking action against Filipinos to exert pressure on the Philippines regarding its enforcement operations targeting Chinese nationals. Guo Jiakun countered that foreign nationals in China are expected to adhere to Chinese laws and regulations, emphasizing that Chinese immigration authorities act legally while safeguarding the rights of those involved. The spokesperson asserted that these actions are not directed at any particular nation.

Reciprocal Accusations Of Detainment

Guo Jiakun further stated that Teodoro himself previously led armed forces in detaining Chinese nationals lawfully employed in the Philippines. This claim frames a reciprocal pattern of alleged misconduct, suggesting both sides have engaged in actions perceived as unlawful by the other. The spokesperson highlighted this history to underscore what China views as hypocrisy in Teodoro’s current criticisms.

The exchange underscores ongoing tensions between China and the Philippines regarding law enforcement activities and the treatment of each nation's citizens within their respective borders.

(With inputs from Xinhua)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.