ESWATINI has joined the Republic of China on Taiwan celebrate the Double Ten – 10 October which marks the Independence Day of the Kingdom’s closest development partner.
The celebration of the 113rd anniversary was marked on Wednesday evening at the Taiwanese embassy in Mbabane.
His Majesty the King who was represented by Prince Bandile congratulated Chinese President Ching te Lai and the people of Taiwan.
His Majesty said Eswatini is “pleased and challenged” by the economic strides being made by the Republic of China, Taiwan.
“We congratulate the President, Government and the people of Taiwan for the success of your significant economic growth and the positive impact you make to the global community. There is nothing stopping you from here, we expect even more achievements going forward.”
“We are pleased and honoured to be counted as steadfast diplomatic allies of Taiwan. We have seen our bilateral relations grow each and every time owing to the mutual understanding of our commitment to our Governments and the people.”
His Majesty expressed appreciation of the bilateral relations and development support of the Republic of China to the Kingdom: “We wish to acknowledge and appreciate the effort made by Taiwan in expanding trade and investment initiatives within Eswatini in multiple disciplines. It is our desire to see high volumes in trade and investment between our countries, which will foster healthy economic growth.”
“Various sectors, namely public health, agriculture, ICT, Energy, Infrastructure and Humanitarian Assistance, amongst others, have continued to enjoy support from our friends – ROC Taiwan.”
The King who regularly advocates for Taiwan’s re-admission to the United Nations called for increased bilateral cooperation: “We must continue to foster healthy and sustainable bilateral relations to ensure that our peoples get support and services and leaving no one behind.”
“Our continued cooperation in these areas have given us positive returns on our drive to meet our sustainable development goals and ensuring that emaSwati are given proper support in their different constituencies where you have made meaningful impact.”
Taiwan Ambassador H.E Jeremy Liang underlined the importance of the relations between the two countries: “Taiwan’s commitment to Eswatini remains rock solid. Taiwan will continue to partner with Eswatini in advancing national development, and the relationship between Taiwan and Eswatini will continue to grow from strength to strength, ” he said.
Eswatini has celebrated the Double Ten since independence in 1968 during which Taiwan has been a steady partner in all areas of development.
Jm/today/10.10.2024
