Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te has landed in the African kingdom of Eswatini, marking a significant diplomatic trip that was originally scheduled for last month but postponed under pressure from China.
Lai's visit to one of Taiwan's few remaining diplomatic allies comes amid ongoing efforts by Beijing to isolate the island internationally. The trip was initially planned for April but was delayed after China exerted influence, according to reports.
"We will never give up on engaging with the world," Lai said upon arrival, reiterating Taiwan's commitment to maintaining ties with friendly nations despite China's opposition.
Eswatini, a landlocked country in southern Africa, is one of only a handful of nations that maintain formal diplomatic relations with Taiwan rather than the People's Republic of China. The visit underscores Taiwan's determination to bolster its international presence.
The Taiwanese delegation is expected to hold meetings with Eswatini's King Mswati III and other officials during the multi-day visit, focusing on economic cooperation and bilateral ties.