A formal meeting showing a handshake between two men, symbolizing diplomatic relations and cultural exchange in Africa.
China has intensified pressure on Eswatini over its diplomatic recognition of Taiwan, ordering Chinese citizens and institutions to leave the southern African kingdom. Beijing says its latest warning is linked to cyber fraud and online gambling, following Eswatini’s arrests of at least 55 Chinese citizens in a crackdown. Eswatini, one of only 12 countries that still recognize Taiwan, rejected Beijing’s claims and said it would not be coerced or destabilized because of its foreign-policy choices. The dispute reflects a broader contest between Beijing and Taipei for diplomatic recognition. China has already excluded Eswatini from a zero-tariff policy extended to other African countries earlier this year. For Taiwan, Eswatini’s continued support, despite Chinese pressure, provides an opportunity to demonstrate the value of its partnerships. For Eswatini, its sustained recognition of Taiwan puts it at risk of economic and political pressure from China.