In a recent statement, the Chinese government has accused the United States of causing "trouble and provocation" after a U.S. Navy warship sailed through the sensitive Taiwan Strait. The Chinese Defence Ministry spokesperson, Colonel Wu Qian, stated that U.S. warships and planes have been engaging in activities that have been perceived as provocative by China.

The comment from Colonel Wu came after the USS John Finn passed through the Taiwan Strait for the first time since Taiwan's presidential election. The U.S. Navy defended the action, stating that the ship's route was "beyond the territorial sea of any coastal state." However, China viewed the U.S. Navy's presence near its doorstep as an act of provocation and responded by driving away the ship.

Colonel Wu emphasized that China's response in deterring the U.S. warship was "justified, reasonable, professional, and restrained." He also asserted that China would continue to conduct military operations in and around the Taiwan Strait. It is important to note that China officially claims Taiwan as part of its territory, even though Taiwan operates independently and is governed democratically.

The recent presidential election in Taiwan saw William Lai emerge as the President-elect, replacing the incumbent. Lai campaigned on keeping a distance from Beijing, signaling a desire for greater autonomy from China. He is set to be inaugurated in May, following the election held in January.

During the same briefing, Colonel Wu accused the Philippines of violating China's sovereignty in the South China Sea by attempting to reinforce construction in the disputed Spratly Islands. He further claimed that the Philippines was colluding with external powers, without providing specific details.

The tension between China and the United States, as well as other countries in the region, continue to simmer due to territorial disputes and differing geopolitical interests. The U.S. and most other nations recognize China's claim under the "One China" policy, which formally acknowledges Taiwan as part of China.

As the new President-elect prepares to take office in Taiwan and China remains committed to asserting its control over the region, the dynamics between these two entities will undoubtedly shape the future of the Asia-Pacific region.