Developing Stories
Monday, May 4, 2026    
Taiwan president lauds King’s vision
Taiwan president lauds King’s vision
Diplomacy
Monday, 4 May 2026 by Sibusiso Shange

 

EZULWINI - The President of the Republic of China (Taiwan) Lai Ching-te says His Majesty King Mswati III is a visionary, courageous and kind King.

Ching-te also observed that the King has a clear blueprint about the future development of Eswatini as well as solutions to all problems facing the country.

The president made the remarks after having discussions with His Majesty.

The heads of State held the discussions before touring the Ezulwini Palazzo where President Ching-te was exposed to some facilities constructed as part of the King’s vision in the country since he ascended to the throne in 1986.

To substantiate his assertion about the King, the president highlighted the Strategic Oil Reserve and said such a facility would not benefit the country alone.

He said the Strategic Oil Reserve, which is under construction at Phuzamoya, stands to benefit the African region during difficult times, such as the ongoing conflict in the Gulf region.

Worth noting is that tensions in the Gulf region significantly affect global fuel and commodity markets due to its key role in oil and gas exports through the Strait of Hormuz.

Even threats of disruption push oil prices higher, raising costs for petrol, diesel and jet fuel. This drives up transport, electricity and production expenses. Higher energy prices also increase fertiliser and food costs, while shipping disruptions raise freight charges, contributing to global inflation, market volatility and slower economic growth, especially in import-dependent economies.

Meanwhile, the president pledged Taiwan’s continued support to programmes undertaken in Eswatini which are aimed at advancing the kingdom’s aspirations of achieving First World status.

He said what is pleasing about the King’s vision is that it does not benefit him but the nation.

During the tour of the state-of the art Ezulwini Palazzo International Convention Centre (ICC), Ching-te observed the great achievement and visionary leadership, which enabled the country to come up with a three-in-one facility.

“During the tour of the first-class facility, I was convinced that it is a good venue for international conventions and conferences. It also serves as a museum and opera house,” he said.

Worth noting is that during the tour of the facility, the president was taken through every component by the construction team led by Inyatsi Group Holdings (IGH) Chairman Michelo Shakantu alongside Prince Mcwasho, who is a Board member.

Also, the King was visibly happy throughout the tour as he would provide insight, as and when, the need presented itself to the president as the visiting head of State showed his eagerness to know about every component of the facility.

“I was impressed by the paintings from the local artists and the display of your cultural heritage. Your country’s landscape has shown that you truly have a beautiful kingdom,” the president said.

He assured the nation that Taiwan is never, in any way possible, in competition but a friend with Eswatini.

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UN must consider Taiwan as member - King

EZULWNI – His Majesty King Mswati III has reiterated that the United Nations (UN) has to consider the Republic of China (Taiwan) as a member.

The King, who has been calling for the recognition of Taiwan at the UN, said it is concerning that a country with a population of three million is still not recognised as a member at the UN. 

He said having demonstrated her capabilities and strengths in health, agriculture and technology, Taiwan deserves recognition at the UN.

He said Ezulwini, where the state-of-the-art Ezulwini Palazzo International Convention Centre has been constructed, reminds him about the history of the place.

Ezulwini remains important in the history of the country because many members of the royal family used to live not very far from the facility.

He said the place does not only carry history about Eswatini but remains important to the world map as it is where a resolution to have all countries included as members of the United Nations was taken.

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I designed everything - His Majesty

EZULWINI – “I designed everything.”

This was a declaration from His Majesty King Mswati III during the tour of the state-of-the-art Ezulwini Palazzo International Convention Centre by the President of the Republic of China on Taiwan Lai Ching-te yesterday.

The King made the declaration after the Chairman of Inyatsi Group Michelo Shakantu, who took the president and his delegation through the tour, pointed at His Majesty the King as the designer of many components within the facility.

First of the designs to be shown to the president, which were the King’s idea, were the special designs from the floor tiles and chandeliers which resemble a red-feathered bird known as ligwalagwala.

*Full article available on Pressreader*  

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