China to 'resolutely fight back' if provoked on Taiwan

Denounced in the Philippines for her rebuke of President Marcos over the Taiwan issue, Chinese ministry of foreign affairs spokesperson Mao Ning has lashed back at Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro Jr., saying China is ready to "resolutely fight back" if provoked.

- MICHAEL PUNONGBAYAN

"It is completely legitimate and necessary for China to state our solemn position. The one-China principle is a red line as well as the bottom line," Mao stressed in a statement shared by the Chinese embassy in Manila Thursday night.

Mao earlier chided Marcos for congratulating Taiwan president-elect Lai Ching-te on his election victory. The Chinese foreign ministry spokesman said Marcos should "read more to develop a proper understanding of the ins and outs of the Taiwan question and come to a right conclusion."