Taiwan President Lai Ching-te has expressed gratitude to King Mswati III of Eswatini for speaking in support of Taiwan's participation in the international community during the 81st United Nations General Assembly. In a Twitter post, Lai described Eswatini's support as longstanding and steadfast. He said Taiwan is ready to share its expertise and work with countries towards a sustainable future. This move demonstrates Eswatini's continued backing of Taiwan's global involvement.
King Mswati III addressed the UN General Assembly, highlighting Taiwan's contribution to global supply chains and its potential role in addressing international development challenges. He called on the United Nations to explore mechanisms that would allow Taiwan to participate meaningfully in UN meetings and activities. This participation would enable Taiwan to share its expertise and engage with international partners. The king's position aligns with Eswatini's and Taiwan's ongoing diplomatic relations.
Eswatini and Taiwan have maintained diplomatic ties for 58 years, with Eswatini being Taiwan's only formal diplomatic ally in Africa. The two countries have seen increased high-level engagement this year. In May, Lai visited Eswatini, meeting King Mswati III and witnessing the signing of agreements between the two countries. This strengthened cooperation across various sectors.
Deputy Prime Minister Thuli Dladla visited Taiwan earlier this month for talks aimed at strengthening cooperation. Discussions included industry, public health, skills development, investment, and disaster management. Eswatini is also part of the World Alliance for Disaster Management, through which Taiwan will share knowledge and experience in disaster prevention, response, and rescue.
Lai said Taiwan hopes to work with Eswatini and other partners to strengthen disaster preparedness and resilience. The king's support for Taiwan at the UN comes as Taiwan's diplomatic allies are increasing their calls for greater participation in the UN system. This growing support may impact Taiwan's future involvement in international organizations.
Permanent representatives to the United Nations from five of Taiwan's diplomatic allies sent a joint letter to UN Secretary-General António Guterres, calling for Taiwan's meaningful participation in the organization. The letter raised issues of inclusion, recognition, and cooperation with Taiwan. The allies argued that UN General Assembly Resolution 2758 does not exclude Taiwan from participating in the UN system.
The support from Eswatini and other diplomatic allies demonstrates Taiwan's growing international engagement. Taiwan will likely continue to seek opportunities for greater participation in global affairs. The country's efforts to strengthen ties with Eswatini and other partners will be crucial in shaping its future international relationships.
Key points
- Taiwan President Lai Ching-te thanks King Mswati III for supporting Taiwan's UN participation.
- Eswatini and Taiwan have maintained diplomatic ties for 58 years.
- Taiwan's diplomatic allies are increasing their calls for greater participation in the UN system.
