By Mbongeni Ndlela
LOZITHA – In a ceremony filled with optimism and mutual respect, His Majesty King Mswati III yesterday received letters of credence from the new Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to Eswatini, His Excellency Faisal bin Falah Al-Harbi, and Canada’s incoming High Commissioner, Her Excellency Sara Nicholls.
The royal engagement took place at Lozitha Palace.
The event marked a strengthening of Eswatini’s international relations, with both envoys expressing their nations’ commitment to deepening partnerships with the Kingdom.
His Majesty warmly welcomed the ambassadors and encouraged them to explore new opportunities for cooperation in sectors that will benefit citizens and foster shared growth.
Ambassador Al-Harbi: Building on Solid Foundations
Ambassador Faisal bin Falah Al-Harbi highlighted the growing cooperation between the two Kingdoms, underscoring the value of friendship and mutual interests.
“The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia deeply values the friendly relations and growing cooperation with the Kingdom of Eswatini,” said Al-Harbi. “We look forward to exploring new horizons together.”
He reflected on last year’s milestone visit by Minister of Foreign Affairs Senator Pholile Shakantu to Riyadh, which led to the opening of an Eswatini Embassy in Saudi Arabia and the signing of a General Cooperation Agreement.
“This agreement paves the way for collaboration in trade, investment, education, tourism, and cultural exchange,” he noted.
High Commissioner Nicholls: Canada Ready to Collaborate on Innovation
High Commissioner Sara Nicholls emphasized the historic and friendly relationship between Canada and Eswatini, dating back to 1968. She reaffirmed Canada’s dedication to building stronger bilateral ties.
“I am here today to reaffirm Canada’s commitment to strengthening our bilateral ties and exploring new avenues of cooperation on the global stage,” she stated.
Nicholls highlighted Canada’s strengths in technology and education, noting synergies with Eswatini’s National Digitization Strategy.
“Eswatini’s ambitions in innovation and technology present exciting opportunities for collaboration,” she said. “Canadian companies are eager to support in areas like e-government, cybersecurity, and Fintech.”
The presentation of credentials signals a renewed chapter of international friendship for Eswatini, guided by shared values and mutual aspirations.
