TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) expressed profound sorrow on Tuesday (April 15) over the passing of Richard Armitage, the former U.S. Deputy Secretary of State who had been one of Taiwan's most vocal supporters in Washington. Armitage, who died at 79, was remembered by Lai as a steadfast ally whose advocacy for Taiwan's democracy created an enduring legacy. "He will always remain in our hearts," President Lai stated.
The Taiwanese leader shared his condolences on the social media platform X, emphasizing Armitage's decades-long commitment to the island democracy. "We will fondly remember his contributions to Taiwan-US relations and support for our democracy, just as we will miss his genuine kindness and sincerity," President Lai wrote, underscoring the personal connection many Taiwanese officials felt with the American diplomat.
Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA, 外交部) issued a formal statement expressing "deep regret and condolences" following Armitage's death. The ministry has instructed Taiwan's de facto embassy in Washington to relay the collective sympathies of the Taiwanese government and its 23 million citizens to Armitage's family, highlighting the diplomat's significance to Taiwan's international standing.
In its tribute, MOFA detailed Armitage's distinguished career, including his tenure as Assistant Secretary of Defense for International Security Affairs during the Reagan and first Bush administrations from 1983 to 1989, and later as Deputy Secretary of State under President George W. Bush from 2001 to 2004. Throughout these roles, Armitage remained a steadfast advocate for peaceful cross-strait relations and Taiwan's democratic institutions, substantially strengthening Taiwan-U.S. ties and regional security in the Indo-Pacific.
Armitage died from a pulmonary embolism on April 13, according to a statement from Armitage International, the consulting firm he founded. The 79-year-old diplomat had recently traveled to Taiwan for President Lai's inauguration, demonstrating his unwavering support for the island nation even in his later years. In what would become one of his final interviews, Armitage explained his visit was intended to convey to Taiwan that American support transcends party lines and remains steadfast. ★