Taiwan's Leader Pledges to Uphold Freedom Amidst China's Drills

Taiwan President Lai Ching-te has vowed to safeguard the values of freedom and democracy against external threats. His statement came as China commenced military drills around Taiwan, made during a speech to officers in Taoyuan.

Taiwan President Lai Ching-te said on Thursday that he will continue to defend the values of freedom and democracy in the face of "external" challenges and threats.

Lai made the comments to military officers in the northern city of Taoyuan, on the same day China launched drills around Taiwan.