Taiwan looks to Eswatini, its sole African ally as China's diplomatic pressure persists

Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen embarked on a "state visit" to Eswatini, marking her nation's sole remaining ally in Africa, amidst growing diplomatic pressure from China. The trip isbeing shown as a symbol of solidarity between Taiwan and Eswatini, highlighting their 55-year-long relationship.

Tsai is currently in Eswatini, formerly known as Swaziland, from September 5 to September 7, commemorating the 55th anniversary of Eswatini's independence and celebrating the long-standing bilateral relations between the two nations. Her last visit to this landlocked nation occurred in 2018.

During her visit, Tsai emphasied the strong bond between Taiwan and Eswatini, referring to the country as a "familiar old friend." She stated, "Not only will Taiwan's footsteps to the world not stop, we will continue to move forward more firmly and self-confidently, so that the world can see Taiwan's steady force for good."

Taiwan has provided substantial aid to Eswatini, including antiviral medication in 2021 to aid King Mswati III's recovery from Covid-19. Accompanied by the Economy Minister, Wang Mei-hua, Tsai's journey to Eswatini involved a direct flight to the African nation without any transits, distinguishing it from her previous visits to Latin America.

China's ongoing claims and diplomatic pressure

China continues to assert its claim that Taiwan must reunite with the mainland, even if it necessitates the use of force, despite Taiwan's self-rule since 1949. Beijing also disapproves of Taiwan's diplomatic relations with foreign nations, a network that has diminished over the years due to mounting pressure from China.

Taiwan presently maintains official diplomatic relations with just 13 sovereign nations, primarily smaller, less developed countries in Latin America, the Caribbean, and the Pacific, such as Belize and Nauru. China has successfully persuaded nine countries to switch their recognition to Beijing since Tsai Ing-wen took office in 2016, with Honduras being the latest to make the shift in March.

China insists that its allies adhere to its One China principle, which asserts that Taiwan is an integral part of the People's Republic of China. Tsai affirmed the importance of gradual diplomacy, stating, "Diplomacy is the accumulation of step by step," while hinting at Taiwan's commitment to expanding its global presence.

While the United States officially does not recognise Taiwan as a sovereign nation, it maintains a robust relationship with the island. In a notable development, Washington recently approved a direct transfer of $80 million in military aid to Taiwan under the Foreign Military Financing program, typically reserved for sovereign states. However, the United States clarified that this assistance does not imply recognition of Taiwan's sovereignty.