TAIPEI (Taiwan News) – Taiwan is evaluating the possibility of President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) traveling to its only African ally Eswatini in April, Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung (林佳龍) said Saturday.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed Thursday it had received an invitation from Eswatini for Lai to attend the April 24 celebrations for King Mswati III’s 58th birthday and for the 40th anniversary of his accession to the throne. Lin said that if there was further news, the Presidential Office would inform the media.
A presidential spokesperson said Saturday the ministry is following official procedure in evaluating the possibility of a trip before communicating its views to the Presidential Office, the Liberty Times reported.
Lin dispelled concern about China’s stake in plans for a dam in Eswatini, with a contract signed last August. The minister said the project is managed by the World Bank and would not affect Taiwan-Eswatini relations.
Taiwan is working on the construction of a large strategic oil storage tank in the African country, Lin said. Building is proceeding within the agreed time and budget limits, he added. Taiwan’s “Project Prosperity” (榮邦計畫) also includes healthcare, education, talent training, and innovation in manufacturing.
