TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taiwanese expatriates in Eswatini said King Mswati III’s decision to dispatch a special aircraft to receive President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) highlights the kingdom’s strong support for Taiwan.

Lai made a surprise visit on Saturday after China pressured Madagascar, Seychelles, and Mauritius to revoke overflight permits last month. Overseas Community Affairs Council member Liu Shu-kai (劉書凱) told CNA that when the previous presidential trip was canceled, Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung (林佳龍) attended the king’s birthday and coronation anniversary celebrations in Lai’s stead.

“This time, the king specially arranged a private plane for the president to fly over and personally host him, which shows that Eswatini is very supportive of Taiwan,” Liu said, according to the report. Liu added that the earlier cancellation had disappointed both Taiwanese expatriates and local officials and citizens.

However, when Lin still made every effort to attend, many in Eswatini said they were deeply moved, viewing Taiwan as sincere and dedicated, Liu said. Liu added that this further strengthened bilateral ties and that Lai also recorded a video to be played at the banquet for foreign guests.

After watching the video, Liu said many attendees approached her and said, “Go Taiwan!” Although there was some disappointment, everyone offered words of encouragement, per the report.

Liu said that while there are just over 100 Taiwanese expatriates in Eswatini, the community is close-knit and well-connected. She added that whenever a president visits, many are eager to participate and welcome the leader.

Although details of the trip were kept confidential beforehand, preventing some from attending, Liu said attendees could still feel how much Eswatini values Taiwan as a partner. She added that the king was visibly pleased upon Lai’s arrival and that the warm interactions further deepened bilateral ties.