China Simulated Precision Strikes Against Key Targets On Taiwan During Second Day Of Military Drills

China practises attacking important locations in Taiwan and nearby waters in the second day of military exercises, according to reports.

Beijing's drills come as a "stern warning" in response to Taiwan president's visit to the United States (US), signalling its disapproval of the self-governing island's action.

"As the Chinese military simulated an encirclement of the island, the US urged China to show restraint," said a BBC report.

Seventy Chinese aircraft are said to have flown around Taiwan on Sunday (9 April). Eleven Chinese ships were also sighted.

Taiwan reported on Saturday (8 April) that 45 warplanes intruded into either the southwest part of its air defence identification zone or the Taiwan Strait median line, which acts as an unofficial border between China and Taiwan.

Beijing's "Joint Sword" operation, which has provoked Taiwanese officials, will run until Monday (10 April).

A Chinese ship reportedly fired a round near Pingtan island, China's closest point to Taiwan, on the first day of drills.

US state department officials have urged China not to exploit President Tsai's US visit, and have called for "restraint and no change to the status quo."

The US cut diplomatic ties with Taipei in favour of Beijing in 1979, but it is bound by law to provide Taiwan with the means to defend itself.

Taiwan views itself as independent with its own constitution and leaders, while China regards it as a rebellious province that it plans to reabsorb, even by using military means.

China's President Xi Jinping has said "reunification" with Taiwan "must be fulfilled."