August 26, 2018
No. 207
US Senator and Chairman of the Senate Committee on Armed Services John McCain passed away in Arizona on August 25, 2018 after an extended battle with illness. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs expresses profound regret at his passing, and has extended sincere condolences and sympathies to the McCain family from the government and people of the Republic of China (Taiwan) through its Representative Office in the United States.
Sen. McCain dedicated his life to the service of his country, having served courageously in Vietnam and having been the Republican candidate for 2008 Presidential Election. He sat, well-respected, in the Senate for more than three decades. A prominent leader in defending freedom and democracy, Sen. McCain was one of Taiwan’s staunchest friends. Sen. McCain introduced resolutions over the course of his career reaffirming the US security commitment to Taiwan in accordance with the Taiwan Relations Act and the Six Assurances. Sen. McCain was also proactive in promoting legislation to strengthen security cooperation and exchanges between the United States and Taiwan. This encompassed the National Defense Authorization Acts (NDAA) of the past few years, which included articles supportive of Taiwan. Also, soon after President Tsai Ing-wen took office, in June 2016, Sen. McCain led a delegation of seven Senators to Taiwan. This was a testimony of strong support for US-Taiwan relations and recognition of Taiwan’s democratic development achievements.
Sen. McCain passed away after a year-long battle with illness. His fortitude and courage in fighting this final battle was admirable. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs hereby expresses deep regret and sincere condolences on the Senator’s passing, and offers the highest respects and fondest remembrance of his tireless efforts to advance US-Taiwan relations while serving in the Congress as well as his enduring friendship with Taiwan. (E)