Taiwan president visits Eswatini days after blaming China for cancelled trip
Summary
Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te visited Eswatini, Taiwan’s only African ally, after his original trip was blocked because of Chinese pressure on nearby countries to deny flight permissions. China criticized the visit and urged Eswatini to end its ties with Taiwan, which China considers part of its territory.Key Facts
- President Lai Ching-te arrived in Eswatini without prior public announcement.
- His original April trip was cancelled when Seychelles, Mauritius, and Madagascar revoked flight permits under Chinese pressure.
- Lai was welcomed by Eswatini’s Prime Minister Russell Dlamini and met King Mswati III.
- Taiwan and Eswatini plan to deepen cooperation in economics, agriculture, culture, and education.
- China opposes Taiwan’s diplomatic ties, calling the visit a “farce” and warning Eswatini.
- China removed tariffs for all African countries except Eswatini shortly after the visit.
- Only 12 countries worldwide maintain official diplomatic relations with Taiwan.
- Taiwan’s government emphasizes maintaining these diplomatic ties despite external pressures.
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