TAIWAN, TAIPEI -The new Taiwanese President, Lai Ching-te, has received praise from His Majesty the King for doing the unprecedented by signing cooperative agreements just a day after taking the oath of office.
The king was speaking during a courtesy call by emaSwati students studying in Taiwan, held at the Grand Hyatt hotel yesterday afternoon. Jeremy Liang, the Taiwan Ambassador to Eswatini, was also present.
His Majesty described the signing of the agreements 24 hours after the inauguration as not only a strong commitment to the relations between the two countries but also an alignment to Eswatini’s ‘Nkwe declaration’ that requires a quick turnaround time on service delivery.
President Ching-te was sworn-in on Monday. The following morning, the president and His Majesty witnessed the signing of three cooperation agreements between the two countries in areas of bilateral relations, central bank governance and business digitalisation.
“It has been a pleasure to see you (students) today as part of our travels to witness the inauguration of the new president and vice president of Taiwan. We were also here to strengthen relations between the two countries.
“What was key to note was that after the swearing-in ceremony, without hesitation, the President adopted the Nkwe philosophy to sign agreements with Eswatini to enhance joint cooperation between the two countries just a day after his inauguration. This is a rare occurrence, and we commend him for his dedication. We have no doubt that these cooperation agreements will assist in addressing the issues you raised here today,” he said.
The students also informed the king that Taiwan had provided them with excellent hospitality.
“We are pleased to learn that among you there are students while others are employed. You are also imparting knowledge about our culture, as I see many of you well dressed in traditional attire.”
“It is also good to see you here in large numbers and even though others could not make it here, your presence is representative. Most importantly, we appreciate hearing that you are very happy with the good hospitality extended to you all,” he commended.
He urged the students to continue to be a shining example of emaSwati and their culture, wherever they go and in whatever they do.
