The recent Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Summit in Beijing attracted a record attendance of 51 African heads of state and government, as reported by China’s Foreign Ministry. Two countries sent “presidential representatives,” bringing the total number of African countries represented to 53.
The only absence was Eswatini, an absolute monarchy that maintains diplomatic relations with Taiwan instead of China, making it the only African country to do so.
In the months leading up to the 2018 FOCAC Summit, China successfully convinced Burkina Faso to switch allegiance from Taiwan to China, leaving Eswatini as Taiwan’s only diplomatic ally in Africa. Taiwan currently has formal relations with only 12 countries, mostly in Latin America and the Caribbean.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning emphasized that African countries widely support the One China principle and see cooperation with China as beneficial for Africa’s economic prosperity and sustainable development. Eswatini’s decision to not participate in FOCAC was deemed against its interest by China, with expectations of a change in the future.
In recent years, several countries have switched recognition from Taiwan to China for expected economic benefits, with Eswatini also pursuing trade and economic relations with China despite not having formal diplomatic ties. Reports indicate growing Chinese investment in Eswatini, with efforts to establish diplomatic relations with China.
The relationship between Eswatini and Taiwan has been subject to speculation regarding a potential switch to China. However, Eswatini has denied such reports, indicating interest in Chinese funding and projects within the country. The close ties between Eswatini and Taiwan are largely influenced by the personal rule of Eswatini’s monarch, affecting decision-making in diplomatic affairs.
While Taiwan’s relationship with Eswatini remains stable for now, potential shifts in Eswatini’s governance could impact the diplomatic ties with Taiwan, possibly leading to a reevaluation of Taiwan’s status in the region.
It is clear that the diplomatic relations between Eswatini and Taiwan are closely linked to the ruling monarch’s decisions, with limited public input. Any changes in Eswatini’s political landscape could have significant implications for Taiwan’s diplomatic standing in Africa.
The future of Taiwan’s relations with Eswatini remains uncertain, as geopolitical dynamics and domestic developments in Eswatini could potentially reshape the diplomatic landscape in the region.