Taiwan President Reaches Eswatini After Canceled Trip Linked to China Pressure
President Lai Ching-te's Journey and Diplomatic Challenges
Arrival in Eswatini
TAIPEI, May 2 (Reuters) - Taiwan President Lai Ching-te said he had arrived in Eswatini in southern Africa on Saturday, having blamed China for the forced cancellation of a prior trip.
Unannounced Second Attempt
Social Media Announcement
Lai made the comment in a Facebook post having not previously announced he was making another attempt to go after the government in April accused China of pressuring three African states to block overflight permission for the president.
Warm Welcome in Eswatini
"Although we are a few days late, the people of Eswatini have still given us the warmest and most enthusiastic welcome," Lai said in his post.
China's Influence on Flight Permissions
Revoked Overflight Permits
Taiwan said last month the Seychelles, Mauritius and Madagascar unilaterally revoked flight permits for its presidential aircraft to cross airspace they manage on a planned trip to Eswatini, one of Taiwan's 12 diplomatic allies.
Eswatini's Support for Taiwan
Standing Firm Against Pressure
"Eswatini has stood firm against various diplomatic and economic pressures, speaking out for Taiwan’s international place through concrete actions," Lai added.
Reporting Credits
(Reporting by Ben Blanchard in Taipei Writing by Engen Tham in ShanghaiEditing by Keith Weir)
