The Kingdom of Eswatini and the Republic of China (Taiwan) have agreed to deepen cooperation in strategic sectors following a high-level visit by Eswatini’s Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Prince to Taipei on Monday.
The visit forms part of ongoing efforts by both governments to strengthen diplomatic relations and expand areas of mutual benefit.
Taiwan’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Lin Chia-lung, officially welcomed the Eswatini delegation and reaffirmed the long-standing friendship between the two countries. 
He described the relationship as one built on mutual trust, shared democratic values and a common commitment to improving the lives of citizens.
The two ministers held bilateral discussions focused on expanding partnership in industrial development, agriculture, renewable energy, smart healthcare, education, cultural exchange and women’s empowerment.
A key outcome of the talks was agreement to advance two major development projects.
The first is the proposed Taiwan Industrial Innovation Park in Eswatini.
Officials said the park is expected to support the Kingdom’s industrialisation agenda by attracting investment, facilitating technology transfer and creating employment opportunities.
The second project discussed was the Strategic Oil Reserve Facility.
Government representatives noted that the facility would help strengthen Eswatini’senergy security and improve the country’s ability to respond to fluctuations in global fuel prices.
Both projects were identified as priorities that align with Eswatini’s national development goals and Taiwan’s strengths in innovation and sustainable economic growth.
The discussions also covered opportunities to increase cooperation in agriculture, vocational training and healthcare.
Officials said there is scope to expand programmes that support food security, modernise farming practices and improve service delivery in health facilities.
The two sides further agreed to explore collaboration in smart healthcare and renewable energy as part of efforts to build more resilient systems.
Women’s empowerment and youth entrepreneurship were also highlighted as areas for increased partnership, with both governments noting the importance of inclusive economic growth.
Prince Simelane expressed appreciation to the Government and people of Taiwan for their continued support to Eswatini over the years.
He acknowledged Taiwan’s contribution in sectors such as agriculture, health, education, vocational training and infrastructure development.
According to the minister, these programmes have delivered tangible benefits to communities across the Kingdom and have supported government efforts to address development challenges.
He said the partnership with Taiwan remains important to Eswatini’s progress.
The minister also reaffirmed Eswatini’s support for Taiwan’s meaningful participation in international organisations.
He stated that the Kingdom values Taiwan as a reliable partner and recognises its role in the global community.
This position, he said, reflects the strength of the bilateral relationship and the principles that guide it.
Taiwan and Eswatini have maintained diplomatic relations for decades, making it one of Africa’s longest-standing bilateral partnerships.
Over the years, cooperation has expanded beyond traditional aid to include trade, technology and skills development.
Taiwan continues to be one of Eswatini’s key development partners, supporting initiatives in agriculture, education, health and entrepreneurship.
Both ministers agreed that the visit marks a renewed commitment to deepen the partnership and ensure that cooperation produces concrete results.
They directed technical teams to work on the implementation of the Industrial Innovation Park and the Strategic Oil Reserve Facility, as well as other projects identified during the talks.
Minister Lin said Taiwan is ready to share expertise and resources to support Eswatini’s development priorities.
He added that future cooperation will focus on sectors that can deliver direct benefits to citizens.
Minister Prince Simelane said the engagement in Taipei reflects Eswatini’s determination to strengthen economic ties and create new opportunities for the people.
He noted that the focus will be on practical projects that contribute to jobs, skills development and improved services.
