MBABANE, Eswatini (Horn post) — the President of the Republic of Taiwan H.E Lai Ching-te arrived in Eswatini on Saturday, successfully completing a delayed diplomatic visit after alleged interference linked to China disrupted his original travel plans.
Lai had initially been scheduled to visit Taiwan’s only African diplomatically from April 22 to 27 to attend celebrations marking the 58th birthday of Mswati III and the 40th anniversary of his coronation. However, the trip was abruptly canceled after Mauritius, Seychelles, and Madagascar revoked overflight permits, a move widely viewed as influenced by Beijing.
The Taiwanese leader confirmed his arrival via social media, posting an image of himself at the aircraft door alongside Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung and Presidential Secretary-General Pan Men-an.
Warm reception Despite Delay
Lai said he received a “warm and enthusiastic welcome” from the people and government of Eswatini, expressing appreciation for the kingdom’s continued diplomatic support despite mounting political and economic pressure.
“Going into the world and cooperating with all positive forces is an inalienable right of the Taiwanese people,” Lai said, reiterating Taipei’s commitment to global engagement.
He added that Taiwan remains committed to peace and freedom, stressing it would not seek conflict but would also not retreat from international participation despite external pressure.
Strategic Diplomatic Visit
Eswatini remains Taiwan’s last formal diplomatic ally in Africa, making the visit symbolically and strategically significant as Beijing intensifies efforts to isolate Taipei internationally.
There was no immediate official clarification on how Lai’s flight secured passage after earlier overflight denials. Following the cancellation of his initial trip, Taiwan had dispatched Lin as a special envoy, while Eswatini sent its deputy prime minister to Taipei for talks.
Unconfirmed local media reports suggested Lai may have traveled aboard the return flight of the Eswatini delegation.
Rising Cross-Strait Pressure
The incident highlights escalating geopolitical tensions between Taiwan and China, with Beijing continuing to pressure countries and international partners to limit engagement with the self-governed island.
Analysts say the successful completion of Lai’s visit underscores Taiwan’s determination to maintain diplomatic ties and counter growing isolation efforts.
Prepared by:
Horn post staff
