President Tsai Ing-wen proceeded to King Sobhuza II Memorial Park in Swaziland on the afternoon of Wednesday, April 18 local time to lay a wreath at the late king's mausoleum. The president also penned the phrase "Taiwan and Swaziland: Enduring Partners" as a sign of respect.
Afterwards, President Tsai met with Swaziland Queen Mother Ntombi Tfwala.
A transcript of the president's remarks follows:
It has been two years since you last visited Taiwan. It's so nice, and I'm so happy to see you here. One issue that is close to my heart, and I know you have worked hard on, is the empowerment of women.
Last year, Your Majesty launched the Swaziland Woman Economic Empowerment Trust (SWEET). I'm encouraged by your work. I know that through this effort, many Swazi women have been given the opportunity to unleash their potential and contribute to the economy. As history has shown, when more women can access economic resources, families become more stable, communities more prosperous, and countries stronger and more united. I believe Taiwan also has the capacity to contribute to your efforts.
This year marks the half-century milestone of the history of Swaziland, as well as the longstanding friendship between our two countries. I trust that our cooperation today will lay a solid foundation for a better tomorrow. I want to thank you for your invitation for me to come here to witness this 50/50 double celebrations (the 50th anniversary of Swaziland's independence and birthday of King Mswati III). I also get a feel for, and experience the life and culture of this great country. Your Majesty, you have a very beautiful country, and very warm and friendly people. I look forward to you visiting us again in Taiwan soon.
Also on hand were Swaziland officials: Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Mgwagwa Gamedze, Minister of Tourism and Environmental Affairs Christopher Gamedze, and Minister of Public Works and Transport Lindiwe Dlamini; and Taiwan officials: National Security Council Secretary-General David T. Lee (李大維), National Security Council Deputy Secretary-General Tsai Ming-yen (蔡明彥), and ROC Ambassador to Swaziland Thomas J.C. Chen (陳經銓).
