RT-Engels: 07-05-2026,
Eswatini has pushed back after Beijing accused some of its politicians of being “kept and fed” by Taipei
China has condemned Eswatini for hosting Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te, accusing the southern African kingdom of giving a platform to “Taiwan independence,” in an escalating diplomatic row.
Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian told reporters on Wednesday that Beijing opposes Eswatini’s decision to receive Lai, who arrived in the kingdom on Saturday for a three-day visit after Taipei said several African states had revoked overflight permits under Chinese pressure.
“Some politicians in Eswatini are kept and fed by Taiwan and provide space for ‘Taiwan independence,’ going against the tide of history. China strongly condemns this,” Lin said.
Lin also accused Lai of violating the sovereignty of other countries, saying the Taiwanese leader had “sneaked” into Eswatini by concealing passenger information and later forced his way through foreign airspace after some states denied him access.
He said the trip shows that “Taiwan independence” separatism is “shady business” and “unacceptable to the international community,” adding that there is “but one China in the world” and that Taiwan is an “inalienable part” of China.
Taipei rejected Beijing’s accusations, saying Lai’s visit was lawful and in line with formal diplomatic practice, adding that the travel plan was not disclosed until after he landed for security reasons.