On July 29, 2026, the Minister of National Defense of the Republic of China, Gu Li Xiong, on behalf of the government, exchanged medals with General Mashikilisana Fakudze, the Commander of the Defense Forces of Eswatini (also known as Swaziland). Gu Li Xiong expressed his belief that with the support of General Fakudze, defense cooperation between the two countries will become even closer.
In the morning of the 28th, the Ministry of National Defense of the Republic of China issued a press release stating that Minister Gu Li Xiong and General Mashikilisana Fakudze of the Eswatini Defense Forces held a medal exchange ceremony at the Ministry’s Boai Camp. Minister Gu Li Xiong first welcomed General Fakudze and his delegation with military honors.
Subsequently, on behalf of the government of the Republic of China, Minister Gu awarded General Fakudze with the “Second Class Precious Tripod Medal” to recognize the deep friendship and continued commitment to deepen bilateral defense exchanges between the two countries. General Fakudze, on behalf of King Mswati III of the Eswatini Defense Forces, awarded Minister Gu Li Xiong the highest “Special Excellent Honor Medal,” in a solemn and dignified ceremony.
In his speech, Minister Gu Li Xiong praised General Fakudze for his efforts since taking office in May 2022 to maintain the national security and social stability of Eswatini, as well as his dedication to promoting military cooperation between the Republic of China and Eswatini.
Minister Gu Li Xiong expressed his sincere gratitude for being awarded the “Special Excellent Honor Medal” from Eswatini, emphasizing that it is a symbol of the strong military friendship between the two sides. He expressed his belief that with the support of General Fakudze, defense cooperation between the two countries will become even closer in the future.
In his speech, General Fakudze pointed out that the close relationship between the two countries has developed from political and economic cooperation to military assistance. He particularly thanked the national armed forces for their long-term assistance in training the Royal Guard and ceremonial troops of Eswatini, as well as providing numerous military courses to enhance the skills of Swazi military personnel, contributing significantly to achieving readiness goals.
General Fakudze emphasized that the Eswatini Defense Forces firmly believe that the two armies will cooperate in more areas in the future, continuing to strengthen and enhance bilateral partnership relationships.