Taiwan President Lai to Visit Eswatini, Africa’s Last Diplomatic Ally

Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te is set to visit Eswatini later this month, marking a significant diplomatic engagement with the island’s last remaining ally on the African continent.

According to official statements from Taiwan’s Presidential Office, Lai will travel to Eswatini from April 22 to 26, 2026, in what will be his second overseas trip since assuming office in May 2024.

The visit coincides with major national celebrations in Eswatini, including the 40th anniversary of King Mswati III’s accession to the throne and his 58th birthday. The Taiwanese leader is expected to attend the commemorative events and hold high-level talks aimed at strengthening bilateral ties.

Eswatini remains Taiwan’s only formal diplomatic partner in Africa, a status that underscores the island’s shrinking global recognition amid growing pressure from China. Beijing considers Taiwan part of its territory and opposes any official diplomatic relations between Taipei and other nations.

Over the years, Taiwan has lost several diplomatic allies to China, leaving it with just a handful of partners worldwide, mostly in Latin America, the Caribbean, and the Pacific.

Despite this, relations between Taiwan and Eswatini have remained strong. The two countries have maintained formal diplomatic ties since 1968, with cooperation spanning infrastructure development, healthcare support, and education initiatives.

Analysts say the upcoming visit highlights the geopolitical rivalry between China and Taiwan, particularly in regions where Beijing has expanded its influence. Eswatini’s continued recognition of Taiwan stands out in Africa, where most countries have aligned diplomatically with China.

Lai’s trip is expected to reinforce longstanding ties and signal Taiwan’s commitment to maintaining its remaining international partnerships.