TAIPEI (Taiwan News) – President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) on Friday watched police simulate the freeing of hostages on a subway train.

The exercise was held during a presidential visit to the National Police Anti-Terror Training Center in Taoyuan’s Xinwu District. After first inspecting the equipment, Lai watched drills, including caring for the injured, an armored car assault, a high-risk raid and arrest, and freeing hostages, the Presidential Office said.

The president said the training and preparations for disasters by the police would make the public feel safer and show Taiwan can face any challenge, Radio Taiwan International reported. He emphasized the police's role as the cornerstone of government efforts to increase resilience against disasters and incidents.

The center plays a key role in helping police train in counter terrorism so they can respond to violent acts, hostage taking, and hijackings, Lai said. The government also supports plans to refurbish the center and add a shooting range, he added.