Story perspectives

Eswatini and Taiwan sign criminal legal aid pact

By Drooid · Oct 9, 2026, 4:08 PM UTC · How we work

Summary

Story summary

King Mswati III signed a mutual legal assistance agreement in criminal matters with President William Lai.
The visit coincided with Taiwan’s Double Ten National Day celebrations on 9 October 2026.
New Eswatini ambassador Vulindlela Simphiwe Kunene presented credentials to President Lai at the Presidential Office.
Kunene said Eswatini will keep urging Taiwan’s meaningful participation in international organisations for fairness.

History

Historical Context

Swaziland forged ties with the Republic of China on 16 September 1968; after the UN gave the China seat to the People’s Republic in 1971, most African nations switched, leaving Eswatini the last holder of Taiwan’s African alliance after Burkina Faso’s 2018 break. Taiwan provided over $30 million in aid (1970-1990), and the 2026 treaty signed by King Mswati III and President William Lai renews that partnership.

1 of 2

Story summary

King Mswati III signed a mutual legal assistance agreement in criminal matters with President William Lai.
The visit coincided with Taiwan’s Double Ten National Day celebrations on 9 October 2026.
New Eswatini ambassador Vulindlela Simphiwe Kunene presented credentials to President Lai at the Presidential Office.
Kunene said Eswatini will keep urging Taiwan’s meaningful participation in international organisations for fairness.

1 / 2