Eswatini has taken a significant step in strengthening its relations with the global Jewish community through a meeting between Foreign Affairs Minister Pholile Shakantu and the American Jewish Committee (AJC). The meeting, which took place on the sidelines of the 81st United Nations General Assembly, was described by Minister Shakantu as a major milestone in enhancing dialogue and cooperation between the kingdom and the global Jewish community.
The AJC, a non-partisan global advocacy organization that has worked on issues affecting Jewish people for over 120 years, was represented by Chairman Michael Feldstein and Africa Institute Director Wayne Sussman. During the meeting, Minister Shakantu and the AJC delegation discussed areas of mutual interest and explored ways to deepen understanding between Eswatini and the AJC. This meeting reflects the kingdom's broader engagement with the global Jewish community and its interest in developing constructive relationships based on mutual understanding.
Eswatini and Israel established diplomatic relations in 1968, and this meeting with the AJC is seen as a continuation of the kingdom's efforts to strengthen its ties with the global Jewish community. Minister Shakantu emphasized that Eswatini values partnerships that build stronger connections and create practical opportunities for cooperation. The meeting identified potential areas for collaboration, including agriculture, technology, health, and commerce.
The AJC Chairman, Michael Feldstein, thanked Minister Shakantu for meeting with the AJC and emphasized the importance of continued engagement with Eswatini, including opportunities for closer economic cooperation. This meeting comes at a time when Eswatini is seeking to expand its international partnerships and explore new opportunities for economic growth.
The meeting between Minister Shakantu and the AJC took place on Thursday, September 24, 2026, in New York, USA. His Majesty King Mswati III attended and addressed the 81st United Nations General Assembly on Wednesday afternoon, where he emphasized the importance of dialogue and cooperation for the greater good of nations. The king's address and Minister Shakantu's meeting with the AJC are seen as part of Eswatini's efforts to engage with the international community and promote its interests.
Eswatini's engagement with the global Jewish community is also seen as a reflection of the kingdom's commitment to building strong relationships with countries and organizations around the world. The meeting with the AJC is a significant step in this direction, and it is expected to lead to increased cooperation and collaboration between Eswatini and the global Jewish community.
The outcome of the meeting between Minister Shakantu and the AJC is expected to have a positive impact on Eswatini's relations with the global Jewish community and may lead to new opportunities for cooperation and collaboration. The kingdom is looking forward to building on the momentum generated by this meeting and exploring new ways to strengthen its ties with the AJC and the global Jewish community.
Key points
- Eswatini's Foreign Affairs Minister meets with American Jewish Committee to discuss areas of mutual interest and potential collaboration.
- The meeting reflects Eswatini's efforts to strengthen its ties with the global Jewish community and explore new opportunities for cooperation.
- Potential areas for collaboration identified include agriculture, technology, health, and commerce.
