China says US-Philippines cooperation should not target third party

China said on Tuesday that cooperation between the United States and the Philippines should not target or harm the interests of any third party, after the US embassy in the Philippines announced the launch of a center in Palawan to help local fishermen report suspected illegal fishing activities.

Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian said at a regular press briefing that China has noted the reports and will closely monitor the situation.

He stressed that exchanges and cooperation between countries should be conducive to mutual understanding and trust between regional countries, as well as regional peace and stability.

"We do not stand against normal cooperation between the US and the Philippines, but relevant cooperation should not target any third party or harm the interests of any third party," he added.