By Zoila Palma: Taiwan’s foreign minister has sharply criticized China during an official visit to Eswatini, declaring that the island will not “bow its head” in the face of mounting pressure, AFP reports.
Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung made the remarks after several African nations revoked overflight permissions for Taiwan’s president, a move he described as political interference.
President Lai Ching-te was forced to postpone a planned visit to Eswatini—Taiwan’s only diplomatic ally in Africa—after Seychelles, Mauritius and Madagascar withdrew previously granted permits for his chartered flight without prior notice.
The cancellations disrupted what would have been an official diplomatic trip to the southern African kingdom.
China, which claims Taiwan as part of its territory, has long opposed the island’s participation in international affairs and its engagement with other countries. Lin accused Beijing of politicizing civil aviation operations and using its influence to restrict Taiwan’s global movement.
Speaking during his visit, which coincided with the 40th anniversary of King Mswati III’s accession, Lin said that no amount of pressure or “unreasonable blockade” would deter Taiwan from engaging with the international community.
He attended the celebrations as Lai’s representative after arriving in Eswatini on Saturday.
The United States condemned China’s actions, describing them as part of an “intimidation campaign” against Taiwan and its allies.
The post International News: Taiwan refuses to “bow” as China pressure disrupts Eswatini visit appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
By Zoila Palma: Taiwan’s foreign minister has sharply criticized China during an official visit to Eswatini, declaring that the island will not “bow its head” in the face of mounting pressure, AFP reports. Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung made the remarks after several African nations revoked overflight permissions for Taiwan’s president, a move he described as
The post International News: Taiwan refuses to “bow” as China pressure disrupts Eswatini visit appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.