Speaking to reporters at Taipei’s international airport, Lai said Taiwanese people “have the right to engage with the world,” after traveling aboard a plane provided by King Mswati III.

The visit marked a diplomatic outreach to Taiwan’s only remaining African ally.The trip had initially been scheduled for April 22 to 26 to attend the 40th anniversary of the king’s accession and his 58th birthday but was postponed after Seychelles, Mauritius and Madagascar revoked overflight permits, according to a senior aide, citing what was described as intense pressure from Beijing.

China, which claims Taiwan as part of its territory, opposes the self-governed island’s participation in international organizations and its official exchanges with other governments. Beijing has repeatedly sought to limit Taipei’s diplomatic space, particularly in regions where it maintains influence.

The United States criticized China’s actions after the delay of Lai’s initial travel, describing them as part of an “intimidation campaign.” Beijing rejected the comments, with its foreign ministry calling them “baseless accusations.”Taiwan maintains formal diplomatic relations with a small number of countries, with Eswatini remaining its sole ally in Africa.

The visit comes as Taipei continues efforts to sustain and expand its international engagement in the face of increasing geopolitical pressure.