LOZITHA – Despite earlier travel disruptions that prevented his initial journey, Lai Ching-te, the President of the Republic of China (Taiwan) is in the country.
He arrived in Eswatini yesterday afternoon, where he was officially received by His Majesty King Mswati III at Mandvulo Grand Hall at Lozitha Royal Palace .
President Lai, was supposed to be in the country for the 40-58 double Jublilee and Kings birthday celebrations, but he could not make it. The president’s visit had initially been postponed after several countries, Seychelles, Mauritius and Madagascar abruptly revoked overflight permits for the Taiwanese presidential aircraft. According to an official statement from Taiwan at the time, the decision followed what it described as ‘intense pressure’ and ‘economic coercion’ from China, resulting in the suspension of the trip that had been scheduled for April 22, 2026.
The move marked a rare instance where overflight restrictions directly affected the travel of a Taiwanese head of State. Taiwanese authorities indicated that the permits were withdrawn without prior notice, raising concerns about aviation safety and diplomatic interference. A delegation was subsequently dispatched to represent the president at Eswatini’s national celebrations.However, in a significant development, President Lai has now made it to the kingdom, underscoring the resilience of diplomatic ties between the two nations.
Following the incident, the United States (US) urged lawmakers to consider sanctions against the African nations involved. Speaking yesterday, His Majesty King Mswati III warmly welcomed the President and praised his determination to undertake the trip despite earlier challenges.
“We are delighted that you accepted my invitation, even though you were expected to attend other important engagements,” said the King. “Your Excellency, you are most welcome. Eswatini is your home.”
The ceremony also saw the signing of a joint communiqué aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation, further solidifying relations that have stood the test of time.
King Mswati III used the occasion to reaffirm Eswatini’s unwavering support for Taiwan’s participation in the international community, a stance that remains significant given Eswatini’s position as Taiwan’s only diplomatic ally in Africa. “We would like to give assurance to the people of Taiwan that Eswatini supports all you wish to achieve, including participation in the international community,” the King said. Reflecting on the kingdom’s development, the Monarch highlighted substantial economic progress made during his reign, noting that Eswatini’s gross domestic product has grown from approximately E1.4 billion at the time of his ascension to nearly E100 billion today. “This demonstrates that the country is making progress,” he said. “We have transformed and developed our structures, and we are grateful for the partnerships that have contributed to this growth.”
Central to these partnerships, the King said, it is Taiwan, which he described as a ‘true friend and partner’ that has significantly contributed to Eswatini’s development.
Among the key projects highlighted was the Ezulwini Palazzo, which the King described as a state-of-the-art facility and one of the finest on the African continent. Taiwan has also supported initiatives in water supply, rural electrification, agriculture and programmes aimed at empowering women and youth.
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Eswatini, Taiwan agree to expand economic, trade cooperation
LOZITHA – The Kingdom of Eswatini and the Republic of China (Taiwan) have reaffirmed their long-standing partnership, with a renewed commitment to expanding economic and trade cooperation following a high-level state visit.
In a joint communiqué released after the talks, both Heads of State expressed satisfaction with the strong diplomatic relations that have existed for decades, describing them as a model of mutual respect and cooperation. They committed to deepening these ties further, particularly in areas that directly benefit the people of both countries.
President Lai Ching-te extended his congratulations and respect to King Mswati III, the Queen Mother and the people of Eswatini, while also acknowledging the country’s continued support for Taiwan on the international stage. The Taiwanese leader specifically commended the King’s remarks at the 2025 United Nations General Assembly, where he advocated for Taiwan’s inclusion in global platforms, emphasising the principle of leaving no one behind.
A major highlight of the visit was the signing of the Agreement on Mutual Assistance in Customs Matters by the Foreign Affairs ministers of the two nations, Lin Chia-lung of Taiwan and Pholile Shakantu of Eswatini. The agreement is expected to enhance cooperation in trade facilitation, improve efficiency in customs procedures, and strengthen the regulatory framework governing cross-border commerce. On the economic front, President Lai reiterated Taiwan’s firm support for Eswatini’s development agenda.
This includes ongoing and future cooperation projects such as the Industrial Innovation Park and the Strategic Oil Reserve facility, both of which are seen as critical to boosting the country’s economic resilience and industrial growth.
*Full article available on Pressreader*
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