President Lai met with Eswatini’s Deputy Prime Minister Thulisile Dladla on February 11, emphasizing Taiwan’s commitment to support and cooperation. The two nations, with over fifty years of official relations, plan collaborative projects, such as oil storage tanks and a central bank building. Taiwan’s role in education and social welfare was also acknowledged, affirming Eswatini’s support for Taiwan’s sovereignty.
On February 11, President Lai Ching-te reaffirmed Taiwan’s commitment to collaboration with the Kingdom of Eswatini across various sectors during a meeting with Deputy Prime Minister Thulisile Dladla at the Presidential Office in Taipei. The delegation from Eswatini will engage in activities over their five-day visit, including attending a banquet hosted by Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung and various ministry visits.
Taiwan and Eswatini have sustained official ties for over fifty years, facilitating strong cooperation in agriculture, economy, medical care, and trade. President Lai noted Taiwan’s contributions towards projects like the construction of oil storage tanks in Eswatini, emphasizing shared goals.
Dladla highlighted critical issues such as gender equality and social welfare, aligning with Taiwan’s policy priorities. President Lai expressed a desire for enhanced partnerships and thanked Eswatini for supporting Taiwan’s international participation in various platforms.
In response, Deputy Prime Minister Dladla relayed greetings from King Mswati III and Queen Mother Ntombi Tfwala while confirming that the oil storage project will commence in April and mentioning future joint endeavors such as a new central bank headquarters and electrification initiatives.
Dladla acknowledged Taiwan’s impactful efforts in education and job creation through its scholarship programs and collaborations, reiterating Eswatini’s robust support for Taiwan’s sovereignty on the international stage. Later on the same day, Vice Premier Cheng Li-chiun welcomed the delegation, aiming for deeper bilateral exchanges focused on gender equality.
In summary, President Lai’s meeting with Deputy Prime Minister Dladla emphasized Taiwan’s longstanding support and collaborative initiatives with the Kingdom of Eswatini. The discussions highlighted ongoing projects, shared aspirations, and mutual support for gender equality and social welfare. Both countries reaffirmed their dedication to strengthening diplomatic ties and addressing key issues on the global stage.
Original Source: taiwantoday.tw
