Beijing praised Seychelles, Mauritius and Madagascar for refusing airspace access, reinforcing its long-standing “One China” policy, which considers Taiwan part of its territory.
Lai had been scheduled to travel to Eswatini, one of only a handful of countries that maintain formal diplomatic ties with Taiwan. Despite the setback, he insisted he would not be intimidated by pressure from China.
Speaking to Channel Africa on Wednesday, Zweli Martin Dlamini said the development must be understood within the context of United Nations General Assembly Resolution 2758, adopted on October, 25, 1971, which recognised the government of China as the sole legitimate representative of the country at the United Nations.
Dlamini argued that Eswatini’s continued diplomatic recognition of Taiwan places it at odds with this position and exposes it to growing international pressure. He said China has for years been engaging Eswatini through diplomatic channels, urging it to sever ties with Taiwan.
The cancelled visit comes ahead of celebrations marking 40 years on the throne of King Mswati III, where Lai had been expected to attend as a guest.
According to Dlamini, public opinion within Eswatini is increasingly divided, with some citizens questioning the benefits of ties with Taiwan amid high poverty levels. He claimed that closer relations with China could unlock economic opportunities, including infrastructure development, jobs and scholarships.
China, he added, appears to be pursuing a gradual strategy to isolate Eswatini diplomatically by engaging neighbouring countries and restricting high-level exchanges with Taiwan.
–ChannelAfrica–
