Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te arrived in Eswatini on Saturday for a state visit aimed at strengthening ties with one of his few remaining diplomatic allies, despite growing international pressure from China.
Lai attended a military welcoming ceremony at the Mandvulo International Conference Hall alongside Mswati III, followed by bilateral talks between the two leaders.
The visit resulted in the signing of a mutual assistance agreement on customs matters between Taiwan, officially known as the Republic of China, and the Kingdom of Eswatini, as well as a joint statement affirming the continuation of cooperation.
Mswati stated that his government would maintain its support for Taiwan's participation in the international community, reaffirming the long-standing diplomatic ties between the two governments.
Lai emphasized Taiwan's status on the world stage, asserting that the autonomous island is a sovereign state and should not be excluded from the international scene.
"No country has the right to prevent Taiwan from contributing to the world," said Mr. Lai, adding that Taiwan would continue to strengthen its capabilities and expand its cooperation with its international partners.
Eswatini is the only African country to maintain official diplomatic relations with Taiwan, while Beijing continues to pressure countries to recognize the People's Republic of China.
