The People's Liberation Army of China has begun military exercises around the island of Taiwan, which will last from April 8 to 10, according to Chinese media CCTV.

The exercises are being held in the waters adjacent to Taiwan and in the air over the Taiwan Strait, along the northern and southern coasts, as well as in the east of the island.

China called the military exercise a "severe warning" to Taiwanese authorities after Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen visited the US last week.

Colonel Shi Yi, spokesman for the Chinese Army's Eastern Combat Command Zone, said that "operations are necessary to protect China's national sovereignty and territorial integrity."

At the end of March, Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen arrived on an unofficial visit to the United States.

Later, on April 7, China imposed sanctions on the US Hudson Institute and the Reagan Library and their leaders, saying both institutions provided a platform and opportunity for Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen's separatist activities.

China also imposed sanctions on Taiwan's ambassador to the US, Xiao Bikim, banning her and her family members from entering the mainland, Hong Kong and Macau.

China considers Taiwan its own territory, not a separate country. The Taiwanese government disputes China's claims.