BEIJING/TAIPEI, May 6 – Chinese officials delivered sharp criticism Wednesday toward Eswatini’s leadership, accusing them of being financially dependent on Taiwan after the African nation welcomed President Lai Ching-te for an official visit.
The harsh diplomatic exchange represents the latest chapter in the ongoing battle between China and Taiwan for international recognition, with both sides frequently accused of using financial incentives to secure support from developing nations.
Beijing’s angry response followed Lai’s successful return Tuesday from an unexpected journey to the former Swaziland, which remains among only 12 nations maintaining official diplomatic relationships with the democratically-run island that China claims as its territory.
Chinese leadership considers Lai a “separatist” and has pressured other nations to avoid any official dealings with his administration or providing him diplomatic hospitality.
According to Lai’s administration, China successfully pressured three Indian Ocean countries – Seychelles, Mauritius, and Madagascar – to refuse flight permissions for his aircraft during his original planned visit last month to attend King Mswati III’s 40th coronation anniversary celebrations.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian told reporters that Lai had “stowed away” to reach Eswatini.
This demonstrated that “separatist” movements face international rejection and represent “a scandal and a farce,” Lin stated during the Beijing briefing.
“Some politicians in Eswatini, kept and fed by Taiwan, have provided space for Taiwan independence forces — this runs counter to the tide of history, and China strongly condemns it,” Lin continued, employing language typically used to describe someone serving as another’s subordinate.
Taiwan’s leadership celebrated after Lai successfully reached Eswatini and returned through an indirect route that avoided airspace controlled by Mauritius and Madagascar.
Rather than using a Taiwan-chartered China Airlines flight as initially planned following standard protocol, Lai traveled aboard the king’s personal A340 aircraft.
Speaking at his Democratic Progressive Party’s regular Wednesday gathering, Lai – who disputes Beijing’s territorial claims – said the journey strengthened Taiwan-Eswatini relations.
Despite China’s “blockade and suppression,” Taiwan “will surely advance steadily onto the international stage” through determination, unity, and cooperation with supportive allies, Lai declared.
