Mbabane - Taiwan President Lai Ching-te arrived in Eswatini on Saturday, 2 May 2026 safely after previously trip was "blocked" by China' in April.
In April, President Lai cancelled his trip to Eswatini after three African countries - Seyselles, Mauritius and Madagascar - suddenly revoked overflight permits on their territories for the president's airplane.
Taiwan blamed China for middling in the cancellation using threaten the there's countries with economic coercion.
"Sanibonani! I arrived in Eswatini today to affirm our longstanding friendship. Taiwan will never be deterred by external pressures. Our resolve and commitment are underpinned by the understanding that Taiwan will continue to engage with the world—no matter the challenges faced," President Lai said in his X account upon arrival in Eswatini.
Sanibonani means Hello in Zulu language, speaking in Eswatini.
Eswatini is one of 12 countries that have bilateral relations with Taiwan and recognizes it as an independent state.
In the first day of President Lai's visit to Eswatini, he met Eswatini's King Mswati III.
The leaders were witnessed the signing a Joint Communiqué, aimed at strengthening collaboration and enhancing trade relations between the two countries.***
