China tells citizens to leave Taiwan-allied Eswatini

China has instructed its citizens to evacuate Eswatini, citing escalating security risks in the African nation, which remains one of Taiwan's few diplomatic allies. This directive comes after Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te visited Eswatini in May, an attempt reportedly thwarted by Beijing's pressure on surrounding countries to revoke overflight permits.

The Chinese Foreign Ministry has urged Chinese nationals and institutions currently in Eswatini to leave immediately or relocate to safer areas, like South Africa, citing rampant cyber fraud and online gambling criminal activities as significant security concerns. The ministry's statement, shared on the WeChat social media platform, did not specify the exact number of Chinese citizens residing or working in Eswatini.

Those who persist in traveling to or remaining in the country are warned of extremely high security risks, potentially impeding timely consular assistance. Notably, Eswatini is one of the 12 countries that still recognize Taiwan. In a bid to isolate Taiwan diplomatically, China has convinced numerous nations to sever ties with the island.

In a recent development, on May 1, China extended its zero-tariff policy to all African countries, excluding Eswatini.