MBABANE – Eswatini and Taiwan’s 58-year friendship built on mutual trust, diplomatic support and development projects touching the lives of ordinary people has been hailed by both countries.
The friendship was celebrated during Taiwan’s 115th National Day celebrations held at Happy Valley in Ezulwini, where Minister for Natural Resources and Energy Prince Lonkhokhela represented His Majesty King Mswati III.
Prince Lonkhokhela, on behalf of His Majesty, described the relationship as one that had grown beyond government-to-government cooperation to benefit families and communities across the country. He highlighted the relocation of the Taiwan Medical Mission to Manzini Government Hospital, saying the move had brought specialised healthcare closer to the people.
The mission uses smart healthcare, modern medical equipment and telemedicine consultations, allowing patients in Eswatini to access specialists in Taiwan without having to travel long distances. “This is a partnership that builds lasting capacity, and not one that merely delivers and departs,” Prince Lonkhokhela said. Another area of cooperation is women’s economic empowerment. Taiwan has established a US$1.5 million revolving fund to support women entrepreneurs. According to the remarks delivered at the event, about 800 people have started or expanded businesses through the initiative.
The partnership has also extended into education, with an increasing number of emaSwati students receiving Taiwan scholarships to pursue higher education.
Prince Lonkhokhela said the students would return with degrees, knowledge, fresh perspectives and friendships that could strengthen the relationship between the two countries.
Taiwan’s Chargé d’Affaires, Ching-lin Tsuei, also pointed to several recent areas of cooperation, including food security.
He said that Taiwan is increasing its rice assistance to Eswatini from 1 200 metric tonnes to about 2 000 metric tonnes in response to food security challenges.
The two countries have also moved to deepen cooperation in trade, energy and investment.
During President Lai Ching-te’s state visit to Eswatini earlier this year, the two sides witnessed the signing of a mutual assistance agreement on customs matters and a joint communiqué which further cemented the relationship. Both countries agreed to advance the strategic oil reserve facility in Phuzumoya and the Taiwan Industrial Innovation Park, with the projects expected to support energy security, investment, job creation and industrial development.
Tsuei said the partnership was not only about large projects but about creating opportunities for people.
The diplomatic relationship has also included strong political support from Eswatini for Taiwan’s meaningful participation in international organisations.
Prince Lonkhokhela said Eswatini would continue supporting Taiwan’s meaningful inclusion, including at the United Nations.
He said the relationship had transcended to one of trust which goes both ways.
The exchanges between the two countries have also continued at senior government level, with Eswatini officials visiting Taiwan and Taiwanese officials visiting the Kingdom. Tsuei noted that His Majesty is expected to visit Taiwan again for its National Day celebrations, marking his 20th visit to the island.
Prince Lonkhokhela said the 58-year relationship should now be entrusted to younger generations. He said Eswatini looked forward to combining Taiwan’s technology, experience and resources with the Kingdom’s development vision.
The two countries, he said, were not only friends of 58 years but partners looking towards the next 58 years and beyond.
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