ANKARA 

Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te said Thursday that his country is willing to work with China to combat the effects of climate change, according to Taiwan News.

“We must make united efforts to create a Taiwan that faces challenges and can integrate with international standards,” Lai said at a National Climate Change Committee meeting. “At the same time, we are also willing to increase cooperation with countries around the world, including China, to jointly face the challenges of climate change.”

His remarks followed heightened tensions between Beijing and Taipei amid counter-military drills in recent weeks.

China considers Taiwan its "breakaway" province, whereas the latter insists on independence.

Lai said the government will promote "deep energy conservation,” which includes using new energy storage technologies, embracing innovative industries, strengthening adaptation and continuing toward the goal of net zero by 2050.

“The best energy source is energy conservation,” said Lai. He said saving energy is more cost-effective than finding new sources, and is the most direct carbon reduction strategy.”​​​​​​​

Drill on Taiwanese outlying islands Penghu

Taiwan began the Chen-Chiang Exercise drill Thursday, days after a similar drill by China.

The drill mobilizes multiple tanks and combat personnel to fire live rounds, simulating a response in the event of Chinese Coast Guard vessels and militia boats disrupting fishery activities and limiting maritime passage with grey zone tactics in territorial waters around the Penghu Channel.

The nighttime drill also aims to examine combat readiness, ammunition supply and maintenance to brace for a potential air and sea invasion by China.​​​​​​​