BY MFANUFIKILE KHATHWANE
MBABANE – The Republic of China (Taiwan) Legislature has unanimously passed a resolution condemning China for allegedly pressuring several countries to block Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te from travelling to Eswatini on April 21,2026.
The resolution, adopted without objection on Thursday June 4,2026, denounced Beijing’s reported efforts to obstruct Lai’s planned state visit to Eswatini, Taiwan’s only diplomatic ally in Africa.
According to the resolution, Seychelles, Mauritius and Madagascar abruptly withdrew flight clearances for Lai’s chartered aircraft shortly before his scheduled departure on April 21. Taiwanese officials alleged that China had threatened the three countries with the withdrawal of debt relief, suspension of financing and other economic sanctions if they allowed the flight to proceed.
Taiwan’s lawmakers described the move as a violation of international norms, sovereign equality and the principle of non-interference. They further argued that the actions endangered aviation safety and sought to undermine Taiwan’s ability to engage with the international community.
“All lawmakers, regardless of party affiliation, will stand united in safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty, democracy, freedom and international dignity,” the resolution stated.
The motion was introduced by members of Taiwan’s ruling Democratic Progressive Party following the cancellation of Lai’s original travel plans.
Despite the setback, Lai later travelled to Eswatini on May 2 aboard the private jet of His Majesty King Mswati III. The aircraft had previously transported the King’s Special Envoy, Deputy Prime Thulisile Dladla, to Taiwan.
The visit also served to reaffirm diplomatic ties between Eswatini and Taiwan.
The Taiwanese President held bilateral talks with King Mswati III, during which the two leaders discussed strengthening cooperation and expanding relations between the two countries. They also witnessed the signing of trade and customs agreements aimed at deepening economic and agricultural collaboration.
Lai further toured the Ezulwini Palazzo International Convention Centre, where he was hosted by King Mswati III. The facility forms part of Eswatini’s broader development agenda and has benefited from Taiwanese support through technical expertise and financing.
The visit culminated in cultural celebrations and a state banquet, underscoring the longstanding partnership between Eswatini and Taiwan amid growing geopolitical tensions involving China and the self-governing island.
Taiwan and Eswatini have maintained diplomatic relations for more than five decades, with Eswatini remaining Taipei’s sole diplomatic ally on the African continent.
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(Courtesy Pic)
