TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) on Tuesday postponed a planned visit to Eswatini after several countries revoked overflight permits.

TVBS reported that the Presidential Office said Seychelles, Mauritius, and Madagascar unexpectedly canceled overflight permissions. Officials said the move followed pressure from China, including possible economic coercion — though no public evidence was provided.

Secretary-General to the President Pan Men-an (潘孟安) said the national security team reviewed the situation. He said the decision was made to delay the trip due to safety concerns.

Lai will instead appoint a special envoy to attend events marking the 40th anniversary of King Mswati III’s coronation and his 58th birthday, per SETN. The president had planned to visit from Wednesday to Sunday for the celebrations.

CNA reported that the Mainland Affairs Council condemned China’s actions, saying Beijing pressured countries to cancel flight permits and interfered in Taiwan’s diplomatic activities. It said Taiwan has the right to engage with the international community and maintain ties with its allies, including Eswatini.

The council also warned that China is using a “two-handed strategy” by offering incentives while increasing pressure on Taiwan. It called on the public and the international community to recognize these tactics and support Taiwan’s participation in global affairs.