TAIWAN has thanked His Majesty King Mswati III for speaking in support of their participation in the international community during the 81st United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York.
Taiwan President Lai Ching-te expressed his appreciation through a post on Twitter, describing Eswatini’s support as longstanding and steadfast. He said Taiwan remained ready to share its expertise and work with countries around the world towards a sustainable future.
The message followed the king’s address to the UN General Assembly where he highlighted Taiwan’s contribution to global supply chains and its potential role in helping address international development challenges.
“Heartfelt thanks to HM King Mswati III for speaking up for Taiwan at UNGA 81, demonstrating Eswatini’s long-term, steadfast support for our int’l participation,” Lai wrote.
He added that Taiwan was ready to “bring our expertise to the table” and work with partners worldwide for a sustainable future.
During his address, His Majesty called on the United Nations to explore appropriate mechanisms that would allow Taiwan to participate meaningfully in UN meetings and activities. Such participation, he said, would allow Taiwan to share its expertise and engage with international partners.
The king’s position comes as the country and Taiwan continue to maintain diplomatic relations. The two countries are marking 58 years of bilateral ties this year, with Eswatini remaining Taiwan’s only formal diplomatic ally in Africa. Relations between the two countries have also seen increased high-level engagement this year. Lai visited Eswatini in May, where he met the king and witnessed the signing of agreements between the two countries.
Deputy Prime Minister Thuli Dladla also visited Taiwan this month for talks aimed at strengthening cooperation between the two countries. During her visit, discussions included areas such as industry, public health, skills development, investment and disaster management.
Eswatini is also involved in the World Alliance for Disaster Management, through which Taiwan says it will share knowledge and experience in disaster prevention, response and rescue. Lai said Taiwan hoped to work with Eswatini and other partners to strengthen disaster preparedness and resilience.
The king’s support for Taiwan at UN comes at a time when Taiwan’s diplomatic allies are increasing their calls for greater participation in the UN system.
According to Taiwan Focus, last Friday, permanent representatives to the United Nations from five of Taiwan’s diplomatic allies sent a joint letter to UN Secretary-General António Guterres.
They called on the UN to seek an appropriate way to facilitate Taiwan’s meaningful participation in the organisation.
The letter raised three issues: inclusion, recognition and cooperation with Taiwan. The allies argued that UN General Assembly Resolution 2758 does not exclude Taiwan from participating in the UN system.
