Eswatini rejects China’s security claims and travel advisory

The government of Eswatini has rejected security concerns raised by China, following a travel advisory from Beijing urging its citizens to leave the kingdom. China cited “security risks,” including “rampant cyber fraud and criminal activities associated with gambling,” suggesting citizens relocate to safer areas like South Africa.

Eswatini officials, represented by Acting Spokesperson Thabile Mdluli, stated that the country will not be “coerced, disadvantaged or destabilised” regarding its sovereignty. The government clarified that recent law enforcement operations targeting suspected organized cybercrime—which involved several Chinese nationals—were lawful actions that demonstrate the effectiveness of local institutions rather than a failure of public security.

The diplomatic tension occurs against the backdrop of Eswatini being the only African nation to maintain formal diplomatic relations with Taiwan. China has long pressured nations to sever ties with Taiwan, and recent friction has included allegations from Taiwan that Beijing attempted to obstruct President Lai Ching-te’s travel to the kingdom.