Taiwan's leader in Eswatini after trip disrupted amid China pressure

Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te visited Eswatini after his original trip was disrupted due to Chinese pressure. Chinese interference led Seychelles, Mauritius, and Madagascar to withdraw overflight permissions for Lai's presidential aircraft, prompting the postponement of his planned visit. Lai's trip was announced on social media after careful coordination by Taiwan's diplomatic and national security teams. Eswatini is one of Taiwan's 12 remaining formal diplomatic allies, and Lai aims to deepen bilateral ties and strengthen international partnerships.