Amid ongoing tensions with Beijing over a visit by US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi to Taiwan, the White House once again invited China to maintain its composure and not turn the visit 'into some sort of crisis'.

The remarks came as White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre addressed the reporters at a briefing in DC on Wednesday.

"Now that Taiwan is effectively encircled by the Chinese military … does the president think that [Pelosi’s] trip was worth the trouble?" asked Fox News White House correspondent.

"There is no reason for Beijing to turn this visit … into some sort of crisis," answered Jean-Pierre.

Pelosi and her delegation arrived in Taiwan on Tuesday evening, despite strong protests from Beijing, and a promise of 'countermeasures'. China’s Foreign Ministry summoned the US Ambassador to Beijing for an official protest, after Pelosi landed in Taipei, warning that Washington may 'pay the price.'

The Chinese Defence Ministry also announced a series of military drills around Taiwan. Hua Chunying told journalists that China's actions were justified as a 'deterrent to the separatist forces of Taiwan independence', also adding that 'US warships and aircraft have come to China's doorstep'.

The US has increased its military presence, with its USS Ronald Reagan aircraft carrier reportedly heading to waters southeast of the island.