Eswatini’s Deputy Prime Minister, Thulisile Dladla, met with Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te during her official state visit this week, reinforcing the strong ties between the two countries.
President Lai thanked Eswatini for its consistent support of Taiwan’s participation in global affairs. The relationship, which spans over 50 years, has been marked by collaboration in agriculture, trade, education, and healthcare. One of the most significant joint projects has been the development of strategic oil storage tanks in Eswatini, which is expected to enhance the nation’s energy security. Both leaders agreed to continue advancing cooperation in various sectors.
Lai emphasized that Taiwan and Eswatini, both peace-loving nations, must continue supporting each other as the international landscape changes. He called for mutual efforts to safeguard the well-being of both countries in the face of rising global threats.
On behalf of King Mswati III, Queen Mother Ntombi Tfwala, and the people of Eswatini, Dladla expressed gratitude for Taiwan’s warm reception and reaffirmed the solid friendship between the two nations. She noted the significance of Taiwan’s assistance in the strategic oil storage project, set to launch in April, and mentioned other ongoing initiatives such as the central bank headquarters and electrification projects, all demonstrating Taiwan’s commitment to Eswatini’s development.
Dladla also congratulated President Lai for his leadership and Taiwan’s achievements under his guidance, recalling King Mswati III’s personal attendance at Lai’s inauguration as a sign of Eswatini’s support for Taiwan’s sovereignty and stability in the international community.
