Taiwan’s President has postponed a trip to Africa, with officials citing intense pressure from China, including economic coercion and airspace intimidation.
Taiwan Accuses China of Interference
Taiwanese Presidential Office Secretary-General Pan Meng-an stated the cancellation stemmed from significant pressure from Chinese authorities, including economic coercion.
He added that intimidating third-party nations threatens aviation safety and constitutes a blatant interference that offends the Taiwanese people.
Madagascar Confirms Flight Denial
A representative from Madagascar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed the denial of the flight request, stating Madagascar recognizes only one China.
The decision was made with full respect for Madagascar’s sovereignty over its airspace, according to the spokesperson.
Seychelles, Mauritius, and China have not yet commented on the matter.
Eswatini Remains a Key Ally
Eswatini is the only African nation maintaining diplomatic relations with Taiwan.
Special Envoy to Represent Taiwan in Eswatini
Instead of the President, a special envoy will represent Taiwan at the celebrations for the 40th anniversary of the reign and 58th birthday of King Mswati III in Eswatini.
Eswatini is Taiwan’s sole diplomatic ally in Africa and one of only 12 countries worldwide with official ties to Taiwan.
China considers the self-governed island part of its territory and consistently seeks to isolate Taipei internationally, opposing contacts between Taiwanese leaders and foreign governments.
Economic Ties Between Eswatini and Taiwan
Diplomatic ties with Taiwan provide tangible benefits to Eswatini, with trade reaching $12.7 billion in 2024.
Both countries also benefit from duty-free access to over 100 products.
Beijing is pressuring the 1.2-million-person nation to sever ties with Taipei, excluding it from infrastructure investment programs and tariff exemptions.