by Ncaba Ntshakala
The newly appointed High Commissioner-designate of the United Kingdom to Eswatini, His Excellency Colin Wells, paid a courtesy call to the Minister for Foreign Affairs & International Cooperation Pholile Shakantu.
During the meeting, both parties reaffirmed their dedication to strengthening diplomatic relations and explored potential areas of bilateral cooperation, focusing on growth and mutual benefit.
Wells succeeds Simon Boyden, who recently completed his term as the UK’s representative in Eswatini.
RELATED: King hails Inyatsi, Shakantu’s investments in Eswatini
The United Kingdom and Eswatini share a long history of partnership in areas such as education, trade, and development.
Over the years, the UK has supported numerous initiatives aimed at improving healthcare, governance, and economic development in Eswatini, while Eswatini continues to enhance its trade links and people-to-people connections with the UK.
It has been said that Wells’ arrival continues to signify a continued commitment to building on these foundations and exploring new avenues of collaboration.
EU welcomes new Ambassador Karsten Mecklenburg to Eswatini
Bon voyage Her Excellency Dessislava Choumelova! After good years of service in the Kingdom of Eswatini, Her Excellency Dessislava Choumelova left the Kingdom to be stationed in another country.
Recently, the European Union in Eswatini and the Kingdom of Eswatini welcomed His Excellency Karsten Mecklenburg, the new Ambassador-designate of the European Union (EU) to the Kingdom of Eswatini.
Mecklenburg was hailed as it has been shared that he arrives with over 25 years of experience working within EU institutions across North America and Africa.
RELATED: EmaSwati need to make better use of EU market access
The new Ambassador has expressed his excitement about strengthening the EU-Eswatini partnership.
“The EU has been a vital partner for Eswatini for over 50 years. My ambition is to maintain and grow our cooperation,
rooted in our rich cultural heritage and in line with our commitments through the Africa-EU partnership, regional organisations, and the UN,” said Mecklenburg.
He was also captivated by Eswatini’s scenic beauty and warm hospitality during his initial days in the country. Again, the EU shared that on a personal note, Mecklenburg is an outdoor enthusiast and has been happily married to Ariane for 25 years, and they share a son.
The European Union and the Kingdom of Eswatini have a long-standing and cordial partnership dating back more than 50 years now which was established in the 1960s. The partnership has been beneficial and developmental in the Kingdom.
This partnership focuses on poverty reduction and the promotion of sustainable and inclusive growth and development.
In pursuit of democracy, the rule of law and human rights, the EU also supports the democratization process within the country.
This is done through regular political dialogues and direct engagements with the country’s authorities including the His Majesty King Mswati III.
The relationship has assisted Eswatini and the European Union enjoy the benefits of their mutual relations.