MBABANE (TVBS News) — Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen expressed thanks in Swazi (Swati) as she commemorates the long-standing friendship between Taiwan and Eswatini during the country's 55th anniversary celebration.
Eswatini, Taiwan's sole African ally, marked its 55th independence celebration on (Wednesday) Sept. 6 , coinciding with King Mswati III's 55th birthday.
A royal spectacle was complete with the attendance of the King's three-year-old son and other royal family members. The Taiwanese president was seen in high spirits as she freely interacted with her royal hosts, including the king's wife and mother.
President Tsai remarked, “On this 55th anniversary of Taiwan-Eswatini diplomatic relations, we celebrate a friendship that has stood the test of half a century and look to create new milestones as we strive towards a century-long friendship."
Her visit is seen as a move to solidify ties amid China's accelerated efforts to expand its influence in Africa to counter the United States.