Taiwanese President Travels to Eswatini for State Visit Despite China’s Interference

‘No country has the right ... to prevent Taiwan from contributing to the world,’ Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te said.

Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te shakes hands with King Mswati III, the king of Eswatini, at Mandvulo Grand Hall near Manzini, Eswatini, on May 2, 2026. Taiwan Presidential Office/Handout via Reuters

TAIPEI, Taiwan—Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te arrived in Eswatini, formerly known as Swaziland, for a state visit on May 2, resuming a trip that had been initially canceled because of interference from Beijing, which drew international criticism for its efforts to undermine the island’s global standing.

Lai is visiting Eswatini, one of 12 countries that maintain formal diplomatic relations with Taipei, to celebrate the 40th anniversary of King Mswati III’s accession to the throne, as well as his 58th birthday.