BY MFANUFIKILE KHATHWANE
LOBAMBA- The President of the Republic of China (Taiwan), His Excellency Lai Ching-te, on May 3,2026 paid a courtesy call on Her Majesty the Indlovukazi at the Ludzidzini Royal Residence.
The engagement, marked by the exchange of gifts and warm pleasantries, reflected the strong diplomatic ties and mutual respect between the Kingdom of Eswatini and Taiwan.
The meeting blended formal diplomacy with royal tradition, highlighting the significance of the monarchy in the country’s national life.
Also present during the courtesy call were Deputy Prime Minister Thulisile Dladla, Minister of Foreign Affairs Pholile Shakantu, and Taiwan’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Lin Chia-lung.
The visit to the Indlovukazi formed a key part of President Lai’s state visit programme, underscoring the importance Taiwan attaches to its longstanding relations with Eswatini.
Earlier today, the visiting President toured the Royal Science and Technology Park at Nokwane, which is earmarked for the Taiwan Industrial and Innovation Park. He was also briefed on progress regarding the Strategic Oil Reserve project.
Speaking during a presentation after the site visit, Minister of Commerce, Industry and Trade Manqoba Khumalo highlighted the progress made, noting that the projects are set to significantly transform the country’s economic landscape.
President Lai arrived in Eswatini on Saturday, May 2, 2026, and has since held high-level engagements with His Majesty King Mswati III, including discussions aimed at strengthening cooperation in key sectors such as agriculture, education and economic development.
Later today, the President is expected to attend the Ruby Jubilee Celebration Theatre Première at the ICC Ezulwini Palazzo, where Their Majesties will host the event as part of celebrations marking 40 years of His Majesty’s reign.
Government has since announced that the event will be open to the public free of charge, in what has been described as a gesture of appreciation to emaSwati.
The state visit continues to reaffirm the strong and enduring relations between Eswatini and Taiwan.
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