HIS MAJESTY DRIVES BUSINESS, TRADE GROWTH WITH TAIWAN

HIS Majesty King Mswati III, who is currently on a State visit to the Republic of China on Taiwan, has called for the strengthening of business and trade between the two countries.

He made the remarks yesterday during a State banquet held in his honour by President Ma Ying-Jeou, where he noted that the 42 year old bilateral ties between the Kingdom of Eswatini and Taiwan had the potential to transform the fortunes of the two countries to greater heights. The King is accompanied by Inkhosikati LaMotsa and was welcomed with the highest honour of a gun salute at the historical Liberty Square National Chiang Kai-shek Cultural Centre, before addressing parliament.
He paid tribute to the forebearers of Taiwan and Swaziland relations, King Sobhuza and Chiang Kai-shek, for initiating the relationship and laying a strong foundation from which to build on. His Majesty said such visits gave the leadership and people of the two countries the opportunity to share experiences and views on how best to further pursue the development initiatives in order to enhance the living standards of the nations. He praised President Ma, the government and the people of Taiwan for the great development strides the country has achieved.
Lessons
"Indeed, the world can draw many valuable lessons from the hardwork and resilience of Taiwan. Our African tradition promotes the spirit of exchange visits and constant interaction between friends. It is for this reason that we attach great importance to your invitation for us to come to your country, as it is in line with our value system," the King said.
His Majesty said it was encouraging to note that the leadership of Taiwan was working closely with Swaziland to ensure an increase in business dealings between the two countries.
The King assured President Ma that the Kingdom of Eswatini would continue to support Taiwan's efforts to ensure that the country continued to make its contribution to the betterment of mankind through its technological prowess.
Benefits
'The Kingdom of Eswatini is a first hand witness of the benefits from the high level expertise of Taiwan in various fields. For example, the contribution of the Republic of China on Taiwan in medical and health services has had a profound effect towards improving the lives and welfare of the Swazi people. We have no doubt that many countries, particularly in Africa, stand to benefit from your vast expertise, experience and skills," he said.
The King said it was encouraging to note that impressive progress has been made in Taiwan's efforts over the years to gain full access and meaningful participation in international affairs, particularly in the UN specialised agencies.
He assured President Ma of Swaziland's continued support.
The King thanked Taiwanese investors for coming to Swaziland, adding that he would take advantage of the State visit to persuade more to do likewise.
He said the availability of jobs was essential to meeting the MDGs.
In response, President Ma described His Majesty as a visionary leader, who worked hard to boost business and investment opportunities for his people.
"The lengths Your Majesty goes for your country and people are truly admirable, and I believe your great country will make tremendous progress with its economic development under such outstanding leadership," he said.
President Ma added that his government has encouraged his country's business people to invest in Swaziland.
"Due to the government's guidance and encouragement, 25 of Taiwan's companies have established factories in Swaziland that produce garments, textiles or cardboard boxes for export. The total investment has reached 80 million US dollars, and 16 000 jobs have been created as a result. This has helped boost Swaziland's economic development and alleviate poverty," he said.
President Ma described Swaziland as an important ally to Taiwan.
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