China's military says it will hold air and sea patrols and military exercises around Taiwan. This is an apparent response to Taiwan Vice President Lai Ching-te's recent stopovers in the US on his way to and from Paraguay.

The People's Liberation Army's Eastern Theater Command announced on Saturday the joint patrols and drills by its navy and air force are meant to boost the coordination of military vessels and test their combat capabilities. The command covers the East China Sea and the Taiwan Strait.

It has not provided further details but said the patrols and exercises are a serious warning against "Taiwan independence separatist" forces colluding with external forces.

Lai made a brief stop in New York on his way to South America to attend the inauguration of Paraguay's new president. He also made a stop in San Francisco on his way back.

In April, China conducted military drills around Taiwan after President Tsai Ing-wen met US House Speaker Kevin McCarthy in the US.

Taiwan's defense ministry strongly condemned China's move on Saturday, saying it would dispatch appropriate forces in response.