Post by : Shakul

Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te has postponed his planned visit to Africa after several countries withdrew permission for his aircraft to pass through their airspace. The development has added to growing tensions between Taiwan and China over diplomatic influence.

The president was scheduled to visit Eswatini, Taiwan’s only diplomatic ally in Africa, between April 22 and April 26. However, authorities confirmed that flight permits along the planned route were canceled at short notice, forcing the postponement of the trip.

According to officials in Taipei, the governments of Seychelles, Mauritius, and Madagascar withdrew overflight permissions. Taiwan has alleged that these decisions were influenced by pressure from China, including economic and political factors.

Senior officials stated that such actions represent interference in the affairs of other countries and disrupt regional stability. Taiwan has expressed concern that these developments undermine its international engagement and diplomatic relations.

China, which considers Taiwan part of its territory, responded by supporting the actions of the countries involved. Chinese authorities stated that adherence to the one China principle aligns with international norms and reinforces their position on Taiwan.

Despite the postponement, Eswatini reaffirmed its continued diplomatic relationship with Taiwan, stating that the cancellation of the visit would not affect long standing ties between the two sides. The African nation remains Taiwan’s only formal ally on the continent.

In recent years, Taiwan has seen a decline in its number of diplomatic allies as several countries have shifted recognition to China. Currently, Taiwan maintains formal relations with a limited number of nations, mostly in smaller regions across the world.

The situation highlights the ongoing geopolitical competition between China and Taiwan, with both sides seeking to strengthen their international influence and partnerships in different regions.

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