Taiwan leader visits Eswatini despite China’s attempts to block trip

Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te has cancelled his trip to Eswatini due to pressure from China. The cancellation occurred after several countries, including Seychelles, Mauritius, and Madagascar, revoked overflight permits for the Taiwanese presidential aircraft without warning. According to Taiwan's government, this decision was made in response to "intense pressure" exerted by Chinese authorities, which included economic coercion. China has deep ties with Africa and considers Taiwan as one of its provinces, refusing to recognize it as a separate country. The cancellation is believed to be the first time a Taiwanese president has had to cancel an overseas trip due to Chinese pressure. Lai's visit was intended to mark the 40th anniversary of King Mswati III's accession in Eswatini.

Taiwanese leader William Lai Ching-te was forced to postpone a visit to eSwatini, his only African partner with official diplomatic ties, due to pressure from Beijing. The trip, originally scheduled for Wednesday, was delayed after Seychelles, Mauritius, and Madagascar abruptly revoked their previously approved overflight permission without warning. This is the first time any Taiwanese leader has had to delay an overseas visit at the last minute. Lai's office announced the postponement late on Tuesday, citing a reassessment of the route due to security concerns. Instead, Lai will appoint a special envoy to attend the celebrations marking the 40th anniversary of King Mswati III's accession and his 58th birthday in eSwatini. The visit was initially planned for five days.