US expresses concern over China’s 'provocative military activity' near Taiwan

"The United States is very concerned by the People’s Republic of China’s provocative military activity near Taiwan, which is destabilizing, risks miscalculations, and undermines regional peace and stability. We urge Beijing to cease its military, diplomatic, and economic pressure and coercion against Taiwan," US State Department Spokesperson Ned Price said in a statement.

"We have an abiding interest in peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. We will continue to assist Taiwan in maintaining a sufficient self-defense capability, and we will maintain our commitments as outlined in the Three Communiqués, the Taiwan Relations Act, and the Six Assurances," read the statement.

"The U.S. commitment to Taiwan is rock solid and contributes to the maintenance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait and within the region. We will continue to stand with friends and allies to advance our shared prosperity, security, and values and deepen our ties with democratic Taiwan," Price said.

Taiwan has said 38 Chinese military jets flew into its air defence zone on Friday.

According to the Taiwan government, it is the largest incursion by Beijing in recent years.

The defence ministry said the planes, including nuclear-capable bombers, entered the area in two waves, reports BBC.

Taiwan responded by scrambling its jets and deploying missile systems, the British media reported.

"China has been wantonly engaged in military aggression, damaging regional peace," Taiwan Premier Su Tseng-chang told reporters on Saturday as quoted by BBC.

China did not make any comment so far.

China sees Taiwan as a breakaway province.

However, Taiwan considers itself as an independent state.