Taiwan President Lai Ching-te said Tuesday that state visits are a basic right of sovereign governments, following his return from a three-day trip to the African kingdom of Eswatini. The Taiwanese government claims Beijing attempted to block the journey.
Background of the Trip
Lai had originally planned to travel to Eswatini, one of Taiwan's 12 remaining diplomatic partners, last month. However, the initial trip was canceled due to what Taiwan's government described as Chinese pressure. According to Taipei, China persuaded three countries to revoke flight permits, denying Lai's plane transit through their airspace. Beijing has not confirmed these allegations but thanked the nations for supporting the one-China principle.
Rescheduled Visit and Cooperation
Undeterred, Lai rescheduled the visit and arrived in Eswatini on May 2. During the trip, he discussed strengthening economic, agricultural, cultural, and educational ties between the two nations. Upon his return to Taiwan, Lai stated, “Just like going out to visit friends, this is every country’s basic right.” He added, “This trip, which was subject to obstruction, actually let the world see the Taiwanese public’s determination and will to be a part of the world.”
China's Stance and Pressure
China claims self-ruled Taiwan as part of its territory, which it vows to reunite by force if necessary. Beijing prohibits countries with which it has diplomatic relations from maintaining formal ties with Taipei. In practice, Taiwan operates independently but faces increasing pressure from China on multiple fronts. Chinese military aircraft and naval vessels approach Taiwan almost daily, while Beijing uses economic incentives and coercion to persuade nations to cut diplomatic ties with the island.
Recent Incidents
Over the weekend, organizers of a human rights conference in Zambia canceled the event after China pressured the host country to exclude Taiwanese activists. Lai thanked Eswatini's Deputy Prime Minister Thulisile Dladla, who accompanied the delegation, for ensuring a smooth round trip. Dladla had visited Taiwan at the end of April. Lai concluded, “Taiwan’s actions show that the real display of power of a country isn’t in having others submit to you, but to bring prosperity to everyone.”
