Beijing warns against Taiwan drills
Foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian on Tuesday warned about military moves by Taiwan, after the island simulated intercepting attacks from the sea during a drill. Twenty warships including frigates and destroyers fired shells to intercept and attack a would-be military force off the island's northeast coast, while fleets of F-16 fighter jets and Ching-kuo fighters launched air strikes. When asked about the drills at a regular briefing in Beijing, Zhao said: "Taiwan's attempt to confront China militarily is akin to a mantis trying to obstruct a chariot.” "In the end, it is doomed to fail," he added. The five-day drills come as China said it heightened warnings to the Biden administration about US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's possible visit to the island. Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden said on Tuesday he expects to speak with President Xi Jinping this week, but is waiting for confirmation. Asked whether the long-awaited call would take place this week, Biden said: "That's my expectation, but I'll let you know when that gets set up." (Agencies)