08.05.2026 17:53
Taiwan leader Lai Ching-te, during a surprise visit to Eswatini, delivered the message that "Taiwan has the right to engage with the world." China reacted strongly to the visit, likening Lai to a "rat" and denouncing him as a traitor. While Beijing considers Taiwan its own territory, Taipei rejects this claim. Previously, China's pressure led to the blocking of flight permits, drawing international backlash.
Taiwan President Lai Ching-te defended his country's right to establish international relations during a surprise visit to Eswatini. China reacted strongly to the visit, targeting Lai.
MESSAGE: “TAIWAN BELONGS TO THE WORLD”
Meeting with King Mswati III of Eswatini, Lai emphasized that Taiwan is a sovereign country, stating, “23 million Taiwanese have the right to interact with the world. No country can prevent this.” The Taiwan administration stated they will continue to maintain a presence internationally despite China's pressures.
VISIT KEPT SECRET
Lai's visit was not announced in advance. Taiwanese officials said the method of "go first, then announce" was chosen to reduce the risk of external interference. The visit was reportedly kept secret to thwart potential obstruction attempts by China. Last month, Taiwan announced that under China's pressure, three Indian Ocean countries had denied airspace clearance for Lai’s plane.
STRONG RESPONSE FROM CHINA
China's Taiwan Affairs Office harshly criticized Lai's visit, likening the Taiwanese leader to a "rat scurrying through the streets." The Beijing administration argues that Taiwan is not an independent state and demands that other countries cut official ties with Taipei. Taiwan's agency responsible for China policies described Beijing's statements as "insulting and meaningless."
INTERNATIONAL REACTIONS
Lai's previously canceled trip had drawn criticism from the US and European countries towards China. The US, European Union, UK, France, and Germany had expressed unease over pressures on Taiwan. Eswatini is one of 12 countries that maintain official diplomatic relations with Taiwan.