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China on Wednesday warned the United States and its allies not to introduce "bloc confrontation" into the Asia-Pacific, responding to reports of a US-led effort to expand ammunition production in the Philippines.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Lin Jian (Photo: Chinese foreign ministry)

At a routine press briefing in Beijing on Thursday, Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Lin Jian was asked about a US-led manufacturing partnership planning to build an ammunition production line to help allies produce and maintain military equipment closer to potential demand.

"China consistently maintains that military and security cooperation between countries should not target any third party or harm the interests of any third party," Lin said. "Nor should it undermine regional peace and stability."

The Asia-Pacific region serves as the most important engine and stabilizer for global development and prosperity, he said.

"The US and its allies should earnestly respect the common aspirations of regional countries, do more to contribute to peace and stability, and refrain from introducing bloc confrontation, conflict and turmoil into the Asia-Pacific.

"If relevant countries are willing to serve as powder kegs or ammunition depots, they will ultimately suffer the consequences themselves."

China would resolutely safeguard its sovereignty, security and territorial integrity, the spokesperson said, and uphold its legitimate rights and interests.