Mbabane: President Lai Ching-te and King Mswati III reaffirmed diplomatic ties on the first day of Lai’s visit to Eswatini. This visit marks a significant moment in the 58-year-long relationship between the two countries, especially after the initial trip was delayed due to revoked overflight permits.
According to Focus Taiwan, Lai arrived in Eswatini on Saturday morning and was welcomed at the airport by Prime Minister Russell Dlamini and Foreign Minister Pholile Shakantu. The highlight of the visit was a military salute ceremony at the Mandvulo Grand Hall at Lozitha Royal Palace, where King Mswati III greeted Lai. The meeting underscored the longstanding diplomatic relations and included discussions on enhancing trade relations and collaboration.
A joint communiqu© emphasized both countries’ commitment to strengthening their partnership. During this meeting, the leaders witnessed the signing of a customs agreement by Taiwan’s Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung and Eswatini’s Foreign Minister Shakantu. This agreement aims to facilitate mutual assistance in customs matters, fostering closer economic ties.
King Mswati III expressed support for Taiwan’s international ambitions, affirming Eswatini’s readiness to back Taiwan’s participation in global affairs. In response, Lai thanked the king for his hospitality and reiterated Taiwan’s sovereign status. He also extended an invitation to King Mswati III to visit Taiwan.
Lai’s trip, initially planned for April, was postponed due to the revocation of overflight permits by several African nations, a move attributed to China’s influence. Despite this, Lai reached Eswatini aboard King Mswati III’s private jet.
During his visit, Lai and his delegation will explore Taiwan-backed projects, including the Taiwan Industrial Innovation Park, a strategic oil reserve facility, and the International Convention Center, highlighting the depth of the partnership between Eswatini and Taiwan.