Chinese officials have warned that an increased U.S. presence in the Asia-Pacific region increases the likelihood of military incidents between the two countries.

"The US military is deploying at an unprecedented level in the Asia-Pacific region. The likelihood of military incidents or accidental shootings is increasing. If the crisis breaks out, the consequences for

Mr. Wu made the statement when presenting the institute's report on the US military presence in the region.

Chinese officials pointed out that during the eight-year term of former President Barack Obama, the US Navy carried out only four freedom of navigation operations, while under President Donald Trump, this number increased to 22.

The report further states that the two militaries "should increase communication to avoid misunderstandings and miscalculations of strategies."

According to the report, China does not see the US as a potential competitor, or "contemplating a cold or hot war with the US".

The Chinese institute's report comes as the relationship between Beijing and Washington has fallen to one of the lowest levels since the two countries re-established diplomatic relations in 1979, involving a wide range of issues.

Recent U.S. free-range operations in the South China Sea, where China issues illegal sovereignty claims, have angered Beijing and repeatedly warned.

Experts say the U.S. naval move is delivering a strong message to China that the US military will continue to maintain a regional presence, despite the ongoing Covid-19.