After encountering obstacles with his planned visit this week to the African country Eswatini (referred to as Swaziland by Taiwan), Taiwan President Lai Ching-te stated on Sunday (April 26) that the stronger the external pressure, the more courage and determination Taiwan must have. He believes no country has the right, nor should, prevent Taiwan from striving to make contributions to the world.
The landlocked southern African nation Eswatini is Taiwan’s only diplomatic ally in Africa. To celebrate the 40th anniversary of King Mswati III’s ascension to the throne and his 58th birthday, Lai Ching-te was originally scheduled to visit Eswatini last Wednesday (April 22).
However, Taiwan’s Presidential Office announced last Tuesday (21st) that, due to Beijing’s pressure, the three countries along the presidential aircraft’s route—Seychelles, Mauritius, and Madagascar—unexpectedly revoked their overflight permissions. After a security assessment, the trip was temporarily postponed, and Minister of Foreign Affairs Lin Chia-lung was appointed as a special envoy to attend the event instead.
According to the United Daily News, Lai Ching-te also delivered a recorded video message at the important dignitaries’ dinner held at the International Convention Centre in Eswatini on Sunday morning.
According to the United Daily News, Lai Ching-te also delivered a recorded video message at the important dignitaries’ dinner held at the International Convention Centre in Eswatini on Sunday morning.
Lai delivered his remarks in English, saying that he is honored to represent the people of Taiwan in congratulating King Mswati III on the 40th anniversary of his accession to the throne, while also commemorating the historic milestone of the "Three 58s."
The "Three 58s" refer to King Mswati III’s 58th birthday, the 58th anniversary of the Kingdom of Eswatini’s independence, and the 58th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between Taiwan and Eswatini. Lai Ching-te pointed out that this event is not only a national celebration for the Kingdom of Eswatini but also the best testimony to the strong friendship between Taiwan and Eswatini.
Lai Ching-te said these milestones powerfully affirm King Mswati III's outstanding leadership. He noted that Eswatini has demonstrated remarkable achievements in infrastructure, social welfare, healthcare, and regional stability, making Eswatini a shining jewel of Africa. Especially noteworthy is that Eswatini's electricity coverage rate has risen to over 85%, one of the highest ratios in sub-Saharan Africa.
The "Three 58s" refer to King Mswati III’s 58th birthday, the 58th anniversary of the Kingdom of Eswatini’s independence, and the 58th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between Taiwan and Eswatini. Lai Ching-te pointed out that this event is not only a national celebration for the Kingdom of Eswatini but also the best testimony to the strong friendship between Taiwan and Eswatini.
Lai Ching-te said these milestones powerfully affirm King Mswati III's outstanding leadership. He noted that Eswatini has demonstrated remarkable achievements in infrastructure, social welfare, healthcare, and regional stability, making Eswatini a shining jewel of Africa. Especially noteworthy is that Eswatini's electricity coverage rate has risen to over 85%, one of the highest ratios in sub-Saharan Africa.
President Lai said that over these 58 years, Eswatini’s economy has grown more than 61-fold, the national outlook is thriving, and national sovereignty has become more secure.
He noted that the mutually beneficial results of the Taiwan-Eswatini partnership have shown the world a sincere friendship and reciprocal cooperation that will create a bright future.
Regarding the current tensions in the Middle East, Lai Ching-te stated that this further reminds Taiwan of the importance of ensuring energy security. The strategic oil storage facility being constructed by Taiwan and Eswatini is expected to be completed in 2028; this initiative not only responds to energy shocks but also demonstrates King Mswati III’s farsightedness and commitment to courageously protecting his nation.
The soon-to-be established Taiwan Industrial Innovation Park is expected to attract more foreign investment and industries into Eswatini, creating more job opportunities.
Lai Ching-te expressed: “I sincerely hope to be present in person to convey to His Majesty and the people of Eswatini the warmest regards from the people of Taiwan.” He continued, “The Republic of China (Taiwan) is a sovereign country; it is Taiwan of the world. The 23 million people of Taiwan have the right to go out into the world. The stronger the external pressure we face, the more courage and determination we must have.”
Lai Ching-te said that Taiwan will continue to strengthen its capabilities and proceed steadily onto the international stage. “No country has the right, nor should, prevent us from striving to contribute to the world.”