China Urges Citizens to Leave Eswatini Amid Security Concerns

China has advised its citizens to leave Eswatini immediately due to rising security concerns in the African nation, one of Taiwan’s few remaining diplomatic allies. The warning comes amid escalating tensions between Beijing and Taipei over Taiwan’s international presence.

China’s foreign ministry issued the advisory on Tuesday, citing “rampant cyber fraud and online gambling criminal activities” as key security risks. The ministry urged Chinese nationals and businesses in Eswatini to evacuate or relocate to safer areas, such as South Africa. “Those who insist on traveling to or remaining in the area will face extremely high security risks,” the statement warned, adding that consular assistance may be delayed.

Eswatini, a landlocked kingdom formerly known as Swaziland, is one of 12 countries that still recognize Taiwan as a sovereign state. China has actively pressured nations to sever ties with Taipei, reducing Eswatini’s diplomatic support. In May, Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te visited Eswatini, prompting accusations from Taipei that Beijing had attempted to disrupt the trip by blocking overflight permissions for the Taiwanese delegation.

China claims Taiwan as part of its territory and opposes the self-governing island’s participation in international forums. On May 1, Beijing extended a zero-tariff policy to all African nations except Eswatini, reinforcing its stance against countries maintaining relations with Taipei.

The number of Chinese citizens in Eswatini remains unclear, though the foreign ministry’s statement suggests a significant presence. The advisory follows a broader pattern of China’s efforts to isolate Taiwan diplomatically, including economic incentives and diplomatic pressure.

#Taiwan #Eswatini #China #DiplomaticTensions #CrossStraitRelations #TaiwanesePresidentLaiChingTe #AFP