Beijing Warns NATO: Stop Using China as Excuse to Enter Asia-Pacific

China has strongly objected to NATO's growing interest in the Asia-Pacific region, warning the alliance against using Beijing as justification for expanding its influence beyond Europe.

At a press briefing on Thursday, Chinese Defense Ministry spokesperson Zhang Xiaogang criticized recent comments from NATO Secretary General, saying they reflect an outdated, confrontational mindset. 

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He accused NATO of trying to justify its eastward expansion by naming China as a threat.

Zhang said China remains committed to peaceful development and follows a strictly defensive military strategy. He added that China's cooperation with Russia is based on mutual respect and is not aimed at any other country.

“China’s military growth is focused on defending its sovereignty and development interests,” Zhang noted, dismissing claims that Beijing seeks confrontation.

In contrast, he said NATO has a track record of igniting instability. “It is NATO that stirs conflicts and provokes wars. It has gone far beyond the limits of its founding treaty,” Zhang said. He warned that the alliance’s expanding presence has raised concerns across Asia.

China urged NATO to rethink its role, reduce tensions, and contribute to global peace instead of extending its power to new regions.

The statement comes as NATO deepens ties with Indo-Pacific partners, raising fears in Beijing that the alliance is attempting to counter China’s influence in the region.