TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen made on a video call on Wednesday (Feb. 8) to check in on the search and rescue team dispatched to assist in Turkey following a massive earthquake led to thousands of deaths.
The president first inquired about the local weather in Turkey with the National Fire Agency's search and rescue deputy squadron leader Huang Po-tsun.
"Yesterday (Feb. 7), it was -4 degrees in the evening; when it was closer to dawn (Feb. 8), it was -2 degrees," Huang said, adding that there wasn't a need for worry as the team had all brought along enough clothes to keep warm.
Tsai also emphasized that in the Sept. 21, 1999 earthquake, Turkey was among the first countries to send over a search and rescue team to help Taiwan.
"This time around, we are also the first to mobilize, and I think that's pretty good," Tsai said. "20 years ago, they helped us. This time, we can help them."
Tsai reiterated hopes for the safe return of the teams as they continue to sift through the rubble for survivors and assist those in need in Turkey.
