A senior member of US President Donald Trump's administration landed in Taiwan Sunday for Washington's highest level visit since switching diplomatic recognition to China in 1979, a trip Beijing has condemned.

US begins highest level Taiwan visit in decades

The Trump administration has appoved arms sale worth $180 million to Taiwan amid China tensions. "The proposed sale will improve the recipient's capability in current and future defensive efforts.

US approves arms worth deal worth $180 million with Taiwan

No matter which way and from where – Washington, Beijing or Taipei – one looks at it, the 70-year-old off-now, on-again mating rites across the Taiwan Strait have decisively been militarised.

WION Edit: Mating rites across Taiwan Strait get weaponised

The United States said Tuesday that its $2.2 billion arms sale to Taiwan will contribute to stability in Asia after China demanded that Washington cancel the order.

Military ties with Taiwan meant to promote peace across the strait: US

Taiwan's infantry and air force conducted a joint anti-invasion drill on Tuesday, including what it called a "simulated invasion by opposing force", on the eve of the island's National Day.

Watch: Taiwan conducts 'anti-invasion' drill ahead of National Day