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Taiwan president Lai Ching-te arrives in Eswatini days after cancellation over Chinese pressure
Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te arrived in Eswatini, days after a planned trip was cancelled amid Beijing's pressure on flight permits. The visit, Eswatini's sole remaining African diplomatic ally, drew strong condemnation from China, which called the move a stowaway-style escape farce.
Why It Matters
The event underscores the ongoing geopolitical contest between China and Taiwan and Beijing's efforts to isolate Taipei. It also highlights Eswatini's continued diplomatic ties with Taiwan amid Chinese pressure.
Timeline
5 Events
China's reaction to Lai's Eswatini visit
May 2, 2026
Beijing described the visit as a 'stowaway-style escape farce' and said Taiwan is part of China, calling Lai an international laughing stock and urging Eswatini to see clearly the general trend of history.
Lai to hold talks with King Mswati III and sign customs agreement
May 2, 2026
Lai's schedule in Eswatini includes bilateral talks with King Mswati III and signing an agreement on customs, according to Taiwan's presidential office.
Lai Ching-te arrives in Eswatini
May 2, 2026
Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te arrived in Eswatini days after his government said a trip had been cancelled due to China pressuring African countries to stop him flying over their territories. Images showed Lai being welcomed by Eswatini Prime Minister Russell Dlamini as he walked past a guard of honour; the arrival was not announced in advance.
China scraps tariffs for Africa, except Eswatini
May 1, 2026
On Friday, China scrapped tariffs for all African countries, except Eswatini.
Original April 2026 trip planned to Eswatini and later suspended
April 2026
The proposed visit was originally set for April 22–26, 2026 to mark the 40th anniversary of King Mswati III's accession. It was suspended after Taiwan said Seychelles, Mauritius and Madagascar revoked flight permits for Lai's aircraft, citing Chinese pressure.