ESwatini expected to make switch to Beijing

China expects self-ruled Taiwan’s last diplomatic ally in Africa, the Kingdom of eSwatini, to switch to Beijing soon.

Taiwan, which China claims as a wayward province with no right to state-to-state relations, now has formal ties with only 17 countries, almost all small, less developed nations in Central America and the Pacific, including Belize and Nauru.

Taiwan President Tsai Ingwen, who has vowed not to bow to Chinese pressure, came under opposition criticism on Wednesday amid calls for a more friendlier policy towards Beijing. Taiwan vowed on Tuesday to fight China’s “increasingly out of control” behaviour after Taipei lost another ally to Beijing when El Salvador became the third country to switch allegiances to China this year.

Ahead of next month’s summit between China and African leaders in Beijing, China has been upping the pressure on Taiwan’s last remaining ally on the continent, eSwatini, formerly known as Swaziland, to come over to China’s side.

Chinese Assistant Foreign Minister Chen Xiaodong said eSwatini did not have relations with China “for reasons that everyone knows”.

“We look forward to and hope that all African nations, with none left behind, can take part in positive China-Africa cooperation, and become a member of the largest family get together,” Chen said.

“I believe this is not just the pursuit of China, it is also a widespread shared expectation of African nations. I believe that this target can in the not-toodistant future be realised,” he added.

Speaking on Monday, eSwatini government spokesman Percy Simelane said he was unaware of any plans about China. “Up until or otherwise told we remain with Taiwan.”

Foreign Affairs Minister Mgwagwa Gamedze said he would have a clearer picture on the country’s position next Monday, adding that he still had to meet the king on the issue. He did not elaborate. — Reuters