Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te canceled a planned trip to Eswatini after Seychelles, Mauritius and Madagascar revoked overflight permits, actions Taiwan attributes to Beijingâs pressure and economic coercion. It marks the first known case of a Taiwanese leader scrubbing a foreign visit because flight clearances were withdrawn. Beijing denies coercion yet praises the three states, while Eswatini stresses that bilateral ties remain intact. The episode underscores ongoing cross-strait tensions and the fragility of Taiwanâs international access, with potential implications for its remaining diplomatic supporters and future travel plans.
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Seychelles, Mauritius and Madagascar revoked Lai Ching-te's overflight permits, with Taiwan describing the move as resulting from intense pressure and economic coercion by China.
Eswatini, Taiwanâs only African diplomatic ally, invited Lai to celebrate the 40th anniversary of King Mswati IIIâs accession but the trip was canceled due to the flight-permit issue.
Eswatiniâs government said the cancellation would not change the longstanding bilateral relationship, signaling resilience in ties despite the setback.
China rejected claims of coercion, stating it appreciates the countries upholding the one-China principle and denying the existence of the so-called President of the Republic of China.
Taiwanâs government and Lai characterized the actions as coercive and a threat to international order, with Lai signaling resolve to engage globally despite pressures.
U.S. commentary criticized the affected countries for bending to pressure, with members of the House Foreign Affairs Committee and Senator Ted Cruz questioning the stance toward Taiwan.
The episode highlights the delicate balance Taiwan must navigate in maintaining international access and diplomatic recognition amid Beijingâs influence.