Taiwan, Eswatini sign three MOUs including sister-city pact

Описание: President Tsai Ing-wen has arrived in Eswatini, Taiwan’s one remaining African ally. Shortly after landing, her delegation signed three cooperation deals with the south African country. One agreement forged a sister-city relationship between Kaohsiung and Eswatini’s capital. In another deal, Taiwan committed to providing support for Eswatini’s female entrepreneurs. During the signing ceremony, Eswatini’s king said he considered Taiwan a home away from home. Tsai is on a four-day state visit to celebrate 55 years of friendship between the two countries.

Upon arriving in Eswatini, President Tsai Ing-wen was welcomed by the nation’s prime minister, Cleopas Dlamini, and a traditional dance ceremony. Taiwanese expats flocked to shake her hand, but Tsai didn’t stay long, as she had a full schedule ahead.

Lynne Chen
FTV reporter
After President Tsai got off her plane, she went directly to Eswatini’s palace for the signing of three cooperation deals.

Taiwan and Eswatini signed agreements, including a sister-city pact between Kaohsiung and Eswatini’s capital, Mbabane. Another deal focused on microloans for female entrepreneurs. In his remarks at the signing, King Mswati III conveyed a warm welcome to Taiwan’s president.

King Mswati III
King of Eswatini
We have great relationship and it continues to grow. When I visited Taiwan, I’ve been there now, I don’t know, it’s countless, because Taiwan is also my home.

Tsai Ing-wen
President
Your majesty, Mswati the Third, the king. The first two celebrations of course are about the founding of Eswatini 55 years ago, and the second one is of course the king’s birthday, so happy birthday to you.

Later at a banquet with Taiwanese expats, Tsai announced upcoming changes to her “Africa plan.”

Tsai Ing-wen
President
We will revise the “Africa plan” when we return. If I’m unable to finish the task, I will pass it along to the next president. Then I’ll tell everyone, the “Africa plan” is already in the hands of the next president, you can go after him. Maybe we can even manage it so that the next time a Taiwan president comes, he’ll not only be able to visit Eswatini, but other places as well.

During her remarks, Tsai was joined onstage by Eswatini’s chief aide-de-camp to the president and top police and military officers, in a sign of respect. Taiwan expats drove as long as nine hours from other African nations to hear her speak and show support for their homeland.