Taiwan Leaders React to Assassination of U.S. Activist Charlie Kirk

Taipei: Taiwan's Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim and Joseph Wu, a senior national security official, have expressed their condolences and reactions following the assassination of American right-wing activist Charlie Kirk. Kirk was killed in a shocking incident during a public event at Utah Valley University, sparking international attention.According to Focus Taiwan, Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim took to social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, to share her dismay over the incident. Hsiao, who previously served as Taiwan's de facto ambassador to the United States, emphasized the importance of university campuses as sanctuaries for learning, free speech, and debate. She stated, "Different views can be argued, but violence must not be tolerated, on campus or anywhere," highlighting the shared values between Taiwanese and Americans in promoting peaceful dialogue.Joseph Wu, who has held the position of secretary-general of the National Security Council since May 2024, also expressed his sorrow over Kir k's death. Wu described the assassination as a "terrible tragedy" and extended his condolences to Kirk's family and those who admired him globally. Kirk, known for his prominent role in the MAGA movement within the Republican Party and as a supporter of former U.S. President Donald Trump, has left a significant impact, and his untimely death continues to reverberate across the globe.