The Minister of Traditional Constituency Affairs and Development of Eswatini, S’khumbuzo Dlamini, visited Taiwan on the 28th to meet with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of China (Taiwan), Joseph Wu. During his visit, he witnessed the signing of the “Eswatini Strategic Oil Tank Project General Contract” by a Taiwanese company. Minister Joseph Wu stated that this project is a significant cooperation between Taiwan and Eswatini, marking an important milestone in the bilateral relations.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Taiwan issued a press release, indicating that Minister Joseph Wu met with S’khumbuzo Dlamini, the Minister of Traditional Constituency Affairs and Development of Eswatini, and Nhlanhla Seedwell Dlamini, the CEO of Eswatini National Petroleum Corporation (ENPC), on the 28th. They discussed various topics related to the Taiwan-Eswatini relations and Taiwan’s assistance in the construction of strategic oil tanks for Eswatini.
Minister S’khumbuzo Dlamini’s visit to Taiwan was focused on witnessing the signing of the “Eswatini Strategic Oil Tank Project General Contract” between Overseas Investment Development Corporation (OIDC) of Taiwan and Eswatini National Petroleum Corporation on the 26th. Minister Joseph Wu warmly welcomed Minister S’khumbuzo Dlamini’s visit, emphasizing the importance of the strategic oil tank project as a significant cooperation between Taiwan and Eswatini, which is highly valued by the leaders of both countries. He stated that the signing of the contract is a crucial milestone and expressed his delight in hearing that local Taiwanese businesses in Africa will also participate in the project, wishing for the smooth progress of the subsequent construction phases.
Minister S’khumbuzo Dlamini conveyed greetings from the King and Queen Mother of Eswatini, H.M. Ntombi Tfwala, to the government and people of Taiwan. He highlighted that the cooperation between the two countries in constructing strategic oil tanks will deepen bilateral ties, with the completion of the project expected to significantly benefit Eswatini’s economic development. The Eswatini side also expressed confidence in the Taiwanese team, believing that the project will be completed as scheduled.
Minister S’khumbuzo Dlamini specifically emphasized that the diplomatic relations between Taiwan and Eswatini have surpassed 56 years, expressing gratitude for the multiple assistance provided by Taiwan to Eswatini and reaffirming Eswatini’s support for Taiwan and the steadfast friendship between the two nations.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Taiwan stated, “The Kingdom of Eswatini is an important ally of Taiwan in Africa. The King and the Eswatini government have long supported Taiwan’s participation in the international community and organizations. The Ministry wishes to express gratitude once again and will continue to expand cooperation and exchanges with Eswatini on the existing foundation of Taiwan-Eswatini relations, and implement the promotion of the ‘Honored Nation Project’.”