BY KING’S OFFICE CORRESPONDENTS
TAIPEI, TAIWAN – THE Eswatini delegation was impressed by the Republic of China (Taiwan) 16th Term President William Lao’s inaugural speech delivered after his swearing in ceremony yesterday morning here.
Foreign Affairs and International Affairs Minister Pholile Shakantu said the relationship between the two countries will continue to strengthen following the president’s speech, where he promised to cooperate with everyone, strengthening democracy, peace and stability.
“The president spoke strongly about unity in the political space, since there was no party with an outright majority. He was clear that their mandate was about serving the Taiwanese society and not about petty party interests,” she said.
She said they were encouraged to hear the president appeal to the rest of the world to support them as they continue to deepen their democracy and pursue the objective of being a free and sovereign state.
Shakantu said they were happy to hear the president’s desire to keep Taiwan’s economy strong and develop as a nation which will cater for everyone’s interests.
Commerce Industry and Trade Minister Manqoba Khumalo was also impressed by the president’s speech.
“Overall, we were impressed by the organisation of the event and encouraged by the president’s speech. It clearly demonstrated that there will be continuity in their international relations.
He believes in Taiwan’s sovereignty and not part of Mainland China. He pleaded for cooperation and desire for Taiwanese to be accorded respect,” he said.
Khumalo stated that they were happy to hear the president’s promise for continued support to their friendly countries.
Republic of China (Taiwan) Ambassador to the Kingdom of Eswatini Jeremy Liang was happy with the King’s presence and appreciation of President Lai’s speech. His Majesty the King was impressed at the organisation and preparation. and speech by the president.
“He was impressed by the well articulated speech by the president. We see our relations being strengthened, not only for Eswatini but with all our allies. We are happy and honoured by His Majesty’s presence at this swearing in ceremony,” the Ambassador said.
His counterpart from Eswatini Ambassador Promise Msibi was also excited at the good news delivered by the president.
“I am very happy with his speech and it looks our two countries will continue to have very cordial and fraternal relations,” he said.
Ministry of Defence Principal Secretary Prince Sicalo said his ministry receives lot of technical support from the Republic of China (Taiwan) and was impressed by the encouraging speech from the president, which indicates relations between the two countries will continue to strengthen.
Prince Hlangabeza and Princess Tsandzile were also impressed by the ceremony and the delight of the Taiwanese society.
“We would like to thank His Majesty the King for gracing this event as one of the prominent leaders at the ceremony. His position will make other leaders to come closer to Taiwan and see what this country is capable of doing not only in the region but the world” he said.
Princess Tsandzile was encouraged at the president’s speech which promised to do the will of the people.
He promised to strengthen in areas where they were lacking and continue to deepen relations with their allies.
