Taiwanese President Returns From Eswatini Trip Amid China’s Interference

Eswatini, formerly known as Swaziland, is one of 12 countries that maintain formal diplomatic relationships with Taiwan.

Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te, accompanied by Deputy Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Eswatini Thulisile Dladla, arrives at a press conference upon returning from Eswatini, at Taoyuan International Airport, in Taoyuan, Taiwan, on May 5, 2026. Ann Wang/Reuters

TAIPEI, Taiwan—Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te returned home on May 5 after a state visit to Eswatini, vowing that the island nation would not be deterred by external pressure.

Lai made the remarks at a press conference at Taoyuan International Airport, with Eswatini Deputy Prime Minister Thulisile Dladla by his side. His trip has drawn international attention after it was abruptly canceled in late April amid Chinese interference, only to be rescheduled for May 2 despite significant logistical and diplomatic hurdles.