The Chinese government has called on Eswatini and a small number of other nations to reconsider their stance on Taiwan, urging them to stop what it described as support for separatist activities.
The remarks were delivered on Saturday by a spokesperson for China’s foreign ministry, following a visit by Taiwan leader, Lai Ching-te to Eswatini. According to Beijing, the trip has further strained sensitivities surrounding Taiwan’s international engagements.
Chinese officials criticised the timing and nature of the visit, noting that it came shortly after an earthquake in Taiwan. The spokesperson alleged that Lai’s decision to travel abroad during the aftermath of the disaster reflected poorly on his leadership and priorities.
Beijing reiterated its long-standing position that Taiwan is an integral part of China, stressing that the One-China principle remains a widely recognised norm in global diplomacy. It argued that any attempts by Taiwan’s current leadership to expand its international space through partnerships with foreign governments would ultimately be unsuccessful.
The statement also accused Taiwan’s ruling Democratic Progressive Party of working with external actors to advance a pro-independence agenda, warning that such efforts would not alter the broader international consensus on Taiwan’s status.
Eswatini is currently the only African country that maintains formal diplomatic relations with Taiwan, a position that has increasingly drawn scrutiny from Beijing amid intensifying cross-strait tensions.
China has consistently urged countries around the world to adhere to the One-China principle, which recognises the government in Beijing as the sole legal representative of China and views Taiwan as part of its territory.
