Story perspectives

Taiwan President Lai Visits Eswatini, Bypasses China-Pressured Nations

5/5/2026

Summary

Story summary

President William Lai arrived in Eswatini on 2 May after his plane took a longer route to bypass China-pressured countries.
China pressured Seychelles, Mauritius and Madagascar to revoke flight permits, forcing the visit to be cancelled.
Taiwan’s foreign ministry said the trip complied with international law and norms.
The U.S. Department of State approved the mission, noting Taiwan’s role as a trusted partner and the benefits of its ties with Eswatini.

History

Historical Context

In 1971 the United Nations General Assembly adopted Resolution 2758, with 76 votes for, 35 against and 17 abstentions, recognizing the People’s Republic of China as the sole Chinese representative and expelling the Republic of China from the UN. The decision began a long-term diplomatic campaign by Beijing that has steadily reduced Taiwan’s formal allies, a pressure that persists today.

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Story summary

President William Lai arrived in Eswatini on 2 May after his plane took a longer route to bypass China-pressured countries.
China pressured Seychelles, Mauritius and Madagascar to revoke flight permits, forcing the visit to be cancelled.
Taiwan’s foreign ministry said the trip complied with international law and norms.
The U.S. Department of State approved the mission, noting Taiwan’s role as a trusted partner and the benefits of its ties with Eswatini.

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