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Taiwan President Lai Ching-te defiant as Eswatini trip begins; China calls him a 'rat'
Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te arrived in Eswatini for a surprise trip and told Eswatini’s king that Taiwan has the right to engage with the world. Taipei says Beijing tried to stop the visit, while China labeled him a 'rat' and urged other countries to end ties with the island.
Why It Matters
The visit highlights ongoing tensions between Taiwan, Beijing, and other countries over international engagement with Taiwan and the broader push for diplomatic isolation by China.
Timeline
2 Events
China condemns Lai Ching-te as a 'rat' amid Eswatini trip
May 3, 2026
China condemned Lai Ching-te as a 'rat' as Beijing has demanded that countries stop any engagements with the island, reiterating its position that Taiwan is part of its territory and has no right to State-to-State ties.
Lai Ching-te arrives in Eswatini for surprise visit and meets the king
May 3, 2026
Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te arrived in Eswatini for a surprise trip and told Eswatini’s king that Taiwan has the right to engage with the world and that no country can stop that. Taipei says Beijing tried to stop the visit.