EU lawmakers slam China

Some European policymakers have rallied behind Taiwan after President Lai Ching-te reportedly cancelled a planned diplomatic visit to Eswatini following alleged pressure from China on countries along its flight route.

The president’s trip to the kingdom was called off after Seychelles, Mauritius and Madagascar allegedly withdrew previously approved overflight permissions for his aircraft at the last minute.

President Lai had been scheduled to arrive in Eswatini on April 23, to attend the national double celebration for His Majesty King Mswati III’s 58th birthday and 40 years on the throne that happened from April 24 until April 26. This would have been President Lai’s second international trip and his first visit to Africa since assuming office in May, 2024.

Taiwan and Eswatini have maintained diplomatic relations for about 58 years, with the kingdom remaining Taiwan’s sole African ally.

Following this development, Taiwan’s Presidential Office reportedly described the situation as “economic coercion,” claiming Mainland China influenced the decision.

The incident has since sparked criticism from several European political leaders, who accused China of using diplomatic pressure to isolate Taiwan internationally.

According to ANI News, German Member of Parliament Klaus-Peter Willsch warned that denying airspace access for political reasons undermined international aviation principles and raised concerns over what he described as China’s growing geopolitical influence.

It was further reported that Willsch argued that such actions violated norms established under the Chicago Convention and the principles of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO).

He also reiterated support for Taiwan’s participation in ICAO, from which the self-ruled island remains excluded.

Meanwhile in Italy, Senate Vice-President Gian Marco Centinaio reportedly said Taiwan’s democratically elected leadership should not be prevented from engaging internationally.

Italian Senator Isabella De Monte reportedly condemned the incident as “coercive diplomacy,” while Member of Parliament Alessandro Cattaneo warned that allowing political pressure to dictate international travel set a dangerous precedent.

Another Italian lawmaker, Fabrizio Benzoni questioned whether international diplomatic freedoms and global rules were still being respected.

Additionally, European representative offices based in Taipei also weighed in on the matter.

The French Office in Taipei and the German Institute Taipei jointly stated that airspace management decisions should prioritise safety, stability and predictability rather than political considerations.

The controversy comes amid increasing tensions between Beijing and Taipei. China regards Taiwan as part of its territory and has intensified diplomatic efforts to isolate the island internationally, including pressuring countries and organisations not to engage officially with Taiwanese leaders.

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Foreign media reports noted that Beijing had previously interfered with the international travel arrangements of Taiwanese presidents. Last year, Lai reportedly cancelled a planned trip to Latin America after the United States allegedly denied him permission to transit through New York, amid concerns over sensitive US-China trade negotiations.

Former Taiwanese president Chen Shui-bian reportedly also faced similar restrictions in 2006 and 2007 when the administration of then-US president George W. Bush reportedly denied him permission to transit through the continental United States while travelling to Latin America.

Govt reaffirms commitment to peaceful cooperation

Acting Government Spokesperson Thabile Mdluli says it is encouraging that the international community is following the matter with close and keen interest.

“As a sovereign nation, Eswatini upholds the principles of international law, including the importance of safe, open and predictable access to international airspace for lawful travel by State officials,” said Mdluli.

She added that any actions or developments that hindered constructive engagement, dialogue or cooperation between nations were concerning.

“At a time when global challenges require collaboration and goodwill, it is essential that all parties act in a manner that supports stability, respect and peaceful interaction,” she said.

Mdluli further stated that the kingdom remained committed to maintaining its international partnerships and would continue to encourage all nations to respect the sovereignty of others and their diplomatic positions.

“The country will continue to pursue its national interests while promoting dialogue, cooperation and peaceful coexistence among nations,” Mdluli added.