Taiwan president visits Eswatini days after blaming China for cancelled trip

On social media, Lai said: "Taiwan will never be deterred by external pressures. Our resolve & commitment are underpinned by the understanding that Taiwan will continue to engage with the world - no matter the challenges faced."In another post, he praised Eswatini for "standing firm against various diplomatic and economic pressure, speaking out for Taiwan's international place through concrete actions"."I hope this trip will contribute to even deeper friendship between Taiwan and Eswatini, thanks to closer economic, agricultural, cultural and educational links, as well as promote Taiwan's international co-operation," he said.Lai's schedule in Eswatini includes bilateral talks with Eswatini's King Mswati III and signing an agreement on customs, according to Taiwan's presidential office.Eswatini, formerly known as Swaziland, is one of just 12 small states that have diplomatic relations with Taiwan. Keeping these ties is a priority for the Taiwanese government.China has for years pressured countries to end diplomatic relations with Taiwan.After Lai's visit to Eswatini, Beijing's foreign ministry said he had become "an international laughing stock"."No matter how the Democratic Progressive Party authorities collude with external forces or in what form they 'buy the loyalty of others', it is all a futile effort that cannot change the fact that Taiwan is part of China," the ministry said, referring to Lai's party.