The United States should stop making trouble in the South China Sea since the situation in this disputed body of water that might one day ignite a United States-China war has become "peaceful and stable," according to the People's Liberation Army (PLA).

Speaking through its official spokesman, the PLA said countries outside of the South China Sea region -- an indirect reference to the U.S. -- to stop stirring threats of war and tension in the region. China said it is monitoring the carrier strike group of the nuclear powered aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN-70), which entered the South China Sea on Feb. 18.

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It is the first patrol of the South China Sea by a U.S. aircraft carrier since Donald Trump took office as U.S. president on Jan. 20.

"We hope the U.S. can sincerely respect the sovereignty and security interests of countries in the region, as well as the efforts they have made toward regional peace and stability," said the PLA through its spokesman.

"We will also respect other nations' freedom of passage and flight through the region so long as they adhere to international law."

The PLA claims the situation in the South China Sea is becoming "peaceful and stable."

"Countries outside of the region shouldn't purposefully stir threats of war or tension, but should inject positive energy into this good development."

The PLA also believes "healthy Sino-U.S. military relation adheres to the basic interests of the two nations' people, as well as being beneficial for peace and security in the Asia-Pacific region and the world."

"It needs China and the US to jointly maintain it. We hope both sides can work together; strengthen communication; avoid misunderstandings and push forward military relations on the right track."

Chinese military pundits said China should "calmly observe and respond carefully" to the situation in the South China Sea. Others believe the U.S. is reinstating its military presence in South China Sea as a bargaining chip to use against China.

They argue the U.S. will continue its Pivot to Asia and, therefore, "China has to be ready for anything."

Tagschina, United States, South China Sea, People's Liberation Army, USS Carl Vinson