China has finally returned the underwater drone to the US government following days of intense negotiation. This marked the end of the most direct confrontation in recent memory between US and China in the disputed South China Sea waters.

"After friendly consultations between China and the United States, the transfer of the US underwater drone was smoothly completed," a statement from the Chinese Ministry of Defense said.

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A spokesperson from Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs has also simultaneously denied that the "drone had been stolen" as claimed by Trump's tweet.   

In response, the US government said it will continue to carry out its navigation operation in the South China Sea territory. The stern stance clearly signified that "transfer of drone" has failed to smoothen America's traditional policy on the disputed maritime territory.

A statement issued by the Pentagon said that "US will continue to fly, sail, and operate in the South China Sea wherever international law allows."

Pentagon also maintained that the US government will conduct full investigation into the "unlawful" seizure of underwater drone. The drone was reportedly seized by Chinese navy officials on Dec. 15 near Subic Bay, which falls in part of South China Sea that is very close to the Philippines.

Incident Likely to Put Further Strain on Sino-US relationship  

This unprecedented incident is likely to put further pressure on the Sino-US relationship, which is already bearing the brunt of Trump's fiery comment on 'One China' policy. The US President-elect, who will assume office on Jan. 20, called on to review the US government's commitment towards 'One China' policy.

This fiery comment came barely a week after Trump broke diplomatic protocol by accepting a phone call from Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen.

The outspoken Trump's overtures toward Taiwan have casted shadow of great uncertainty on the US-China bilateral relationship.

China has been on radar of Trump's trademark aggression since the election campaign days. He described China as a "job thief" and "currency manipulator."   

TagsChina and U.S., U.S Underwater Drone, China Underwater Drone, South China Sea