Mbabane : China has issued a stern warning to Eswatini following the recent visit by Taiwan President Lai Ching-te, critticising the kingdom’s continued diplomatic relations with Taipei.
According to a Reuters report., the remarks were made on Wednesday by Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian, who accused some leaders in Eswatini of supporting what Beijing describes as separatist activities. In unusually blunt terms, Lin alleged that certain politicians in the country were being “kept and fed” by Taiwan, a phrase widely interpreted as derogatory.
The comments followed Lai’s return to Taiwan on Tuesday after a visit to Eswatini, one of only a dozen countries that maintain formal diplomatic ties with the self-ruled island, which China claims as part of its territory.
Beijing considers Lai a separatist figure and has consistently urged countries not to engage with his administration. China insists that all nations adhere to its “One China” policy, under which Taiwan is regarded as a breakaway province with no right to formal diplomatic recognition.
According to Taiwan’s government, Lai’s trip faced logistical challenges after several countries reportedly denied overflight access to his aircraft. Authorities in Taipei said Seychelles, Mauritius and Madagascar refused permission under pressure from Beijing, forcing a change in travel arrangements.
Instead of using a chartered commercial aircraft, Lai travelled to Eswatini aboard a private jet belonging to King Mswati III, taking a longer, indirect route.
Lin criticised the circumstances of the visit, claiming Lai had effectively “stowed away” to reach the kingdom and describing the situation as a “scandal and a farce”. He added that the developments reflected growing international rejection of what China terms Taiwan independence activities.
Eswatini has pushed back against the remarks. Acting government spokesperson Thabile Mdluli told Reuters that the comments were “deeply unfortunate” and fell short of the standards expected in international diplomacy.
“It is especially concerning when statements of this nature come from a country that positions itself as a responsible global actor,” she said.
Mdluli emphasised that Eswatini’s foreign policy decisions are sovereign. “Eswatini must not be bullied and our sovereign decisions ought to be respected by all,” she added.
Taiwan, meanwhile, said the visit had strengthened ties between the two governments. Speaking at a meeting of his Democratic Progressive Party, Lai said Taiwan would continue to engage internationally despite what he described as China’s “blockade and suppression”.
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