Taiwan says it is determined to defend itself as China vows to boost combat readiness

 Taiwan is determined to defend itself and protect its free way of life, the island's defence minister said on Thursday, discussing next month's annual exercises, as China's military vowed to boost combat readiness to stop "separatist" activities.

China, which views democratically governed Taiwan as its territory, has ramped up its military threats over the past five years, staging several rounds of war games and sending its forces into the skies and waters near the island daily.