Taiwan President Cancels Trip After African Nations Close Airspace

Taiwan’s president, Lai Ching-te, has called off a planned visit to Eswatini, an African country, citing Beijing’s influence over its neighbors. The decision came after Seychelles, Mauritius, and Madagascar revoked overflight permissions for Lai’s aircraft, reportedly under pressure from China. A Taiwanese official stated that these nations acted under “intense pressure” and economic tactics from the Chinese government.

China dismissed claims of coercion, expressing approval for the three African states. In a statement on X, the country praised their “high appreciation” for upholding its stance on Taiwan. This marks the first known instance where a Taiwanese leader had to cancel a foreign journey due to revoked flight permissions. Eswatini, previously known as Swaziland, remains the sole African ally of Taiwan, among just 12 nations globally that officially recognize the island.

Beijing upholds the “one China” principle, which maintains its claim over the island. While many in Taiwan view themselves as a sovereign state, China considers it a breakaway province destined to join the mainland. The government has not ruled out military action to achieve this goal. Lai, who has been labeled a “troublemaker” by Beijing, has faced criticism for his diplomatic approach.

“No amount of threats or coercion will shake Taiwan’s resolve to engage with the world,” Lai asserted in a statement on X, condemning China’s “coercive actions” and highlighting the risks authoritarian regimes pose to global relations.

Eswatini’s administration expressed regret over the cancellation but emphasized that it would not “alter the status of our enduring bilateral relationship,” as reported. Lai’s trip was intended to commemorate the 40th anniversary of King Mswati III’s coronation. During a press briefing, a spokesperson from the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council acknowledged the countries’ support for the one-China principle, stating Beijing “appreciated their position and actions.”

The Chinese Foreign Affairs Ministry also reinforced its position, declaring that the “so-called ‘President of the Republic of China’ no longer exists in the world,” a reference to Lai’s title. Reuters noted that Seychelles and Madagascar cited their non-recognition of Taiwan as the reason for their decisions. Some U.S. critics, including the House Foreign Affairs Committee, have condemned the three nations for “standing with Taiwan against this blatant coercion.” Senator Ted Cruz further criticized Mauritius, suggesting it was “determined to ally with the Chinese Communist Party.”