China tells citizens to leave Taiwan-allied Eswatini
China has told its citizens to immediately leave Eswatini, citing security risks in the African nation that is one of Taiwan’s few remaining diplomatic allies. China claims Taiwan is part of its territory and opposes the self-governed island’s attempts at international exchange. Taiwan’s president Lai Ching-te travelled to Eswatini in May, with Taipei accusing Beijing […]
The Chinese foreign ministry has instructed its citizens residing in Eswatini, an African nation and one of Taiwan's few diplomatic allies, to immediately leave the country due to security concerns. Eswatini welcomed Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te during his visit on May 2, 2026. Taiwan claims that Taiwan is an integral part of its territory and opposes the island's efforts to establish international connections.
Beijing is accused of attempting to disrupt Lai Ching-te's visit by exerting pressure on neighboring countries to withdraw overflight permits.
The ministry stated that Chinese nationals and institutions currently present in Eswatini should evacuate as soon as possible or relocate to safer areas, such as South Africa. The primary security risks mentioned include "rampant cyber fraud and online gambling criminal activities." It was unclear how many Chinese citizens were present in Eswatini at the time of the instruction.
Eswatini, a small kingdom formerly known as Swaziland, is one of the 12 countries that still recognize Taiwan. China has managed to persuade other nations to sever diplomatic ties with the self-governing island. On May 1, China extended a zero-tariff policy to all African countries except Eswatini.
Written by urgent.news from Hong Kong Free Press's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
Also reported by 2 other outlets
- China tells citizens to leave Taiwan-allied Eswatini hongkongfp.com
- China tells citizens to leave Taiwan-allied Eswatini freemalaysiatoday.com
