MBABANE – President of the Republic of China (Taiwan) Lai Ching-te has affirmed that his country will not give in to pressure.
The president arrived home yesterday after completing a State visit to Eswatini.
Giving a briefing to news reporters upon arrival, the president said Taiwan would not give in to pressure, having taken a circuitous route over the southern part of the Indian Ocean.
He left Eswatini on Monday afternoon aboard Siyinqaba Royal Aircraft A340.
“The world belongs to everyone. Taiwan belongs to the world. Taiwanese people are citizens of the world. Taiwanese people have the right to engage with the world. We will not retreat in the face of suppression,” Lai said upon arrival at Taiwan’s main international airport in Taoyuan, outside of Taipei.
“The fact that this trip was obstructed at one point only made the world see Taiwan’s people’s firm determination and will to engage with the world,” he added.
In his remarks, President Lai reported on the achievements of the trip, including the positive results of Taiwan and Eswatini’s collaboration that he witnessed in areas such as energy, industry, agriculture, smart healthcare, women’s empowerment and cultural and educational exchanges.
President Lai emphasised that the people of Taiwan have the right to engage with the world and will not be deterred by pressure. The president said this visit not only deepens the two nations’ diplomatic ties spanning over half a century, but also demonstrates Taiwan’s resolve to work with like-minded nations to uphold the international order, further underscoring Taiwan’s willingness to participate in and contribute more to the international community.
“From our departure on May 2 to our return today, May 5, we have travelled more than 25 000 kilometres over 84 hours. We have successfully concluded this diplomatic visit to our ally, the Kingdom of Eswatini, and safely returned to Taiwan.
“On behalf of the people of Taiwan, I would like to express my gratitude to His Majesty King Mswati III, the Government of Eswatini and all the nation’s people. Thank you for your heartfelt, warm and steadfast support. Although Taiwan and Eswatini are geographically separated by thousands of kilometres, the friendship and trust between our peoples are stronger than ever,” he said.
He paid tribute to Deputy Prime Minister Thulisile Dladla, whom he said had ensured he and his delegation travelled safely to and from Eswatini. Dladla had been in Taipei only last week as the King’s special envoy.
“This visit is not merely exercising diplomacy rights between states in order to foster friendly relations, it is also a demonstration of Taiwan’s will to uphold international order with all like‑minded countries,” Lai said.
Lai was accompanied by Taiwan government officials and ministers who were part of his delegation. Including Lin Chia-lung, Minister of Foreign Affairs; Pan Men-an who is Secretary General to the President and Alex Huang the National Security Council Adviser.
He further said the Republic of China (Taiwan) has demonstrated through its actions that true national strength lies not in making others capitulate, but in bringing happiness to all.
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