TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Eswatini Prime Minister Russell Dlamini is reportedly considering establishing diplomatic relations with China.
According to Swaziland News, Dlamini recently invited American economist Jeffrey Sachs to give an informal briefing to the cabinet, per Liberty Times. Sachs, an economic adviser to the Eswatini government, reportedly urged the kingdom to establish ties with China to gain economic benefits.
The idea drew criticism from pro-Taiwan lawmakers and sparked debate in parliament on Wednesday. Lawmaker Welcome Dlamini questioned the move, saying it was troubling and noting that Eswatini has long maintained formal diplomatic relations with Taiwan.
Dlamini is expected to issue an official response in the coming days, Swaziland News reported. Taiwan's ambassador to Eswatini, Jeremy Liang (梁洪昇), also reportedly voiced strong opposition after learning of the plan.
