BEIJING – China does not oppose normal cooperation between the United States and the Philippines, but maintains that such cooperation should not target any third party or harm the interests of third parties, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said on Tuesday.

Spokesperson for the ministry Lin Jian made the remarks at a regular news briefing after the US Embassy in the Philippines announced days earlier that it had launched a center in Palawan to help local fishermen report suspected illegal fishing activities.

"China has noted relevant reports and will keep a close watch on the situation," Lin said.

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China consistently believes that exchanges and cooperation between nations should help build mutual understanding and trust among regional countries, and should promote peace and stability in the region, he said.