Eswatini: Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung arrived in Eswatini on Saturday morning, following Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te's cancellation of his planned trip to southern Africa due to reported interference from China. Lai's visit was initially set from Wednesday to Saturday, but was halted after Seychelles, Mauritius, and Madagascar withdrew overflight permissions, citing adherence to Beijing's "one China" principle.
According to Focus Taiwan, Lin was seen in a video posted on the Eswatini government's Facebook page walking on the tarmac upon arriving in Eswatini, Taiwan's only diplomatic ally in Africa. The video caption announced Lin's attendance for the Ruby Jubilee of His Majesty's reign and the 58th birthday celebration, noting his arrival at King Mswati III International Airport. Lin was warmly welcomed by Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Senator Pholile Shakantu and Minister of Commerce, Industry and Trade Manqoba Khumalo.
The Presidential Office soon released a statement indicating that Lai had appointed Lin as his envoy to Eswatini. The appointment underscores the value Taiwan places on its friendship with Eswatini and reflects Taiwan's ongoing commitment to deepen cooperation with its allies, as stated by Presidential Office spokesperson Karen Kuo. Lai's trip, which would have marked his second overseas journey since assuming office in May 2024, was suspended due to Beijing's pressure on the African nations to revoke overflight permissions.