MBABANE – The Office of the President of the Republic of China (Taiwan) has announced the postponement of a planned state visit to Eswatini, which was initially scheduled to depart on April 22.
The current President of Taiwan (Republic of China) is Lai Ching-te, also known internationally as William Lai.
In a statement, the Taiwanese Presidency said the decision was taken following a security assessment by its national security team after what it described as the abrupt withdrawal of overflight permissions by several countries along the intended flight route.
According to the statement, the changes in airspace clearance affected the safety planning for the presidential delegation, the Head of State and the aircraft, prompting a review of travel arrangements. As a result, a Special Envoy has been appointed to represent the President at Eswatini’s upcoming “Double Celebration” national events.
The Taiwanese authorities further indicated that three countries – Seychelles, Mauritius and Madagascar – had reportedly revoked previously granted overflight permits without prior notice. The statement alleged that the decisions followed external pressure and economic influence, claims which could not be independently verified.
It added that such developments raised concerns over aviation safety and adherence to established international norms governing diplomatic travel and overflight arrangements. The statement further characterised the situation as interference affecting sovereign decision-making and regional diplomatic practices.
The Government of the Republic of China (Taiwan) expressed strong concern over the developments, stating that they were not in line with international practice. It also reiterated its position that Taiwan is a sovereign entity and emphasised the rights of its 23 million citizens to participate in international engagements.
At the same time, Taiwan extended appreciation to what it described as allied and like-minded partners who assisted in recent diplomatic consultations related to the matter.
The postponement comes ahead of Eswatini’s planned national “Double Celebration” events, which are expected to attract international delegations and mark key milestones in the country’s calendar.
Authorities in Eswatini have not yet issued a formal response to the announcement at the time of going to press.
President of Taiwan (Republic of China) is Lai Ching-te.