Taiwan's leader made an official visit to Eswatini, a small country in southern Africa, to strengthen relations with one of the few remaining diplomatic allies amid pressure from mainland China.
On 3 May 2026 GMT+7, President Lai Ching-te of Taiwan traveled on an official visit to Eswatini, a small country in southern Africa, to reinforce ties with one of the few remaining diplomatic allies amid pressure from mainland China.
The Taiwanese leader participated in a military welcome ceremony alongside King Mswati III at the Manzini International Conference Center before holding bilateral talks. During this visit, Taiwan and the Kingdom of Eswatini signed a customs assistance agreement and issued a joint statement affirming ongoing cooperation.
King Mswati III emphasized that Eswatini will continue to support Taiwan's participation in international forums, reflecting their longstanding diplomatic relationship. President Lai Ching-te stressed that Taiwan is a sovereign state and should not be excluded by the global community, stating that no country has the right to block Taiwan's participation.
Currently, Eswatini is the only country in Africa maintaining official diplomatic relations with Taiwan, while China continues to pressure various countries to switch recognition from Taiwan to the People's Republic of China.