US State Department praises Taiwan ties with Eswatini
Updated
Updated · Reuters · May 4
US State Department praises Taiwan ties with Eswatini
13 articles · Updated · Reuters · May 4
The comments came after President Lai Ching-te made a surprise visit to Eswatini, Taiwan's only African diplomatic ally and one of just 12 states recognising Taipei.
Washington said such presidential travel was routine and should not be politicised, after Taiwan said Chinese pressure had blocked Lai's planned April trip by denying overflight access.
China condemned the visit, while Taiwan remains the biggest flashpoint in US-China relations ahead of a leaders' summit in Beijing later this month.
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May 2026 Eswatini Visit: Taiwan's Defiant Stand Amid Chinese Coercion and U.S. Support
Overview
President Lai Ching-te's May 2026 visit to Eswatini, Taiwan's sole African ally, faced major challenges when Seychelles, Mauritius, and Madagascar revoked overflight permissions due to China's intense economic pressure. This forced a postponement and a secretive reroute using King Mswati III's private jet. Despite obstacles, the visit strengthened ties through a customs cooperation agreement and the King's firm reaffirmation of loyalty to Taiwan. The United States supported Taiwan's engagement, while China condemned the visit, intensifying diplomatic tensions. Taiwan continues to deepen its partnership with Eswatini through development aid and counters Chinese pressure, highlighting the visit's significance amid the ongoing geopolitical struggle over Taiwan's international space.