BY MFANUFIKILE KHATHWANE
EZULWINI – His Majesty King Mswati III has once again strongly reiterated the Kingdom of Eswatini’s unwavering support for Taiwan’s inclusion in the United Nationsl.
The King was Speaking on May 3,2026 during a tour of the Ezulwini Palazzo (ICC) with Taiwan President Lai Ching-te, the King said it was important for the world to embrace inclusivity and ensure that all nations, including Taiwan, have a voice in global affairs.
He emphasised that Taiwan, with its population of over 23 million people, has the capacity to contribute meaningfully to international development, yet remains excluded from key UN systems and agencies.
The King maintained that such exclusion goes against the spirit of the United Nations, which promotes equality, cooperation and the principle of leaving no country behind. He reiterated that allowing Taiwan’s participation would strengthen global responses to shared challenges such as health crises, economic development and technological advancement.
This is not the first time His Majesty has made such an appeal. He recalled that he raised the same issue when welcoming President Lai at Mandvulo Grand Hall on Saturday, and has consistently used platforms such as the UN General Assembly in New York to advocate for Taiwan’s recognition.
The King has repeated this appeal multiple times, including during the 77th session in 2022 and 80th session in 2025, stating, “We continue to appeal for Taiwan to be considered for full participation in the UN agencies”
“Eswatini will always stand with Taiwan,” the King said, reaffirming the Kingdom’s long-standing diplomatic ties with the island nation.
Over the years, the King has argued that UN General Assembly Resolution 2758, adopted in 1971, does not address Taiwan’s representation and should not be interpreted as barring its participation in the UN system. Instead, he has called for practical engagement that allows Taiwan to contribute, particularly in specialised agencies like the World Health Organization.
He further noted that Taiwan has been a reliable partner to Eswatini, contributing significantly to sectors such as water supply, electricity and infrastructure development, including the construction of the Ezulwini Palazzo.
King Mswati III stressed that inclusion is not merely a political matter, but a global necessity that would benefit all nations. He urged the international community to recognise Taiwan’s potential and ensure it is accorded space to participate in shaping global solutions.
