OSAKA, JAPAN – Eswatini has reaffirmed its longstanding friendship with Taiwan during the ongoing World Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan.
Prime Minister (PM) Russell Mmiso Dlamini assured Taiwanese officials that the kingdom remains steadfast in its diplomatic support despite global pressure to sever ties.
The PM made this pledge yesterday while leading a high-level delegation to Taiwan’s Tech World Pavilion – one of the most advanced and interactive exhibits at the global event. He was accompanied by Minister of Commerce, Industry and Trade Manqoba Khumalo, Minister of Tourism and Environmental Affairs Jane Simelane, and Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Mabulala Maseko.
Set under the architectural design concept Mountains of the Heart, Taiwan’s Tech World Pavilion captivated the Eswatini delegation with its fusion of ‘Life, Future and Nature’. The immersive experience employs 3D visual technology and AI-driven algorithms to engage visitors through all six senses – including the oft-forgotten sense of emotion. Visitors are treated to a futuristic depiction of how digital technology has revolutionised modern living, industry, and sustainability.
Following the tour, Prime Minister Dlamini held bilateral talks with Taiwanese officials, where discussions centred on deepening cooperation between the two nations. He reaffirmed Eswatini’s unwavering support, stating:
“Eswatini remains committed to its partnership with Taiwan, regardless of external pressures. Our friendship is based on mutual respect and shared development goals.”
Dlamini also revealed that Eswatini is in the process of establishing an industrial park and extended an invitation for Taiwan to be among the first foreign investors in the project. He said the industrial park would serve as a hub for advanced manufacturing, agro-processing, and green technology, potentially opening up job opportunities for emaSwati while creating a gateway for Taiwan into African markets.
Highlighting Eswatini’s strategic economic position, the PM noted: “With the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) gaining momentum, Eswatini stands as an ideal launch pad for Taiwanese investors seeking access to Africa’s burgeoning market of over 1.4 billion consumers. We also enjoy preferential trade agreements with the United States through AGOA, and with the European Union, offering even broader market access.”
Beyond Taiwan, the Eswatini delegation visited pavilions from Turkey, Serbia and Saudi Arabia, where they were taken through each country’s technological and industrial innovations. The delegation engaged in preliminary bilateral talks aimed at exploring investment and cooperation opportunities with each of these nations.
The World Expo, hosted under the theme “Designing Future Society for Our Lives”, brings together countries and corporations from across the globe to showcase cutting-edge advancements and visions for a sustainable, interconnected future.
As the only African country maintaining diplomatic ties with Taiwan, Eswatini’s presence and support at the Expo underscore its commitment to meaningful global partnerships that drive national development.
Today, Eswatini will mark its National Day at the Expo, which will include a cultural showcase and the highly anticipated Business Forum, aimed at attracting global investors to the kingdom’s economic opportunities. The forum is expected to spotlight investment sectors such as tourism, manufacturing, renewable energy, and ICT.
With strong representation at one of the world’s most significant diplomatic and economic gatherings, Eswatini is positioning itself as a small but strategic player with big ambitions — and the right partners to help it realise them.
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