The Kingdom of Eswatini and Taiwan have signed an agreement to strengthen cooperation in criminal justice, creating a framework for the two countries to assist each other in investigations and prosecutions involving cross border crime.
The agreement on mutual legal assistance in criminal matters was signed by Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs HRH Prince Simelane and Taiwan’s Minister of Justice, Cheng Ming-chien, at the presidential residence in Taipei.
His Majesty King Mswati III and Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te witnessed the signing, which took place during the King’s visit to Taiwan ahead of the country’s 115th National Day celebrations on Saturday, 10 October 2026. 
Under the agreement, the two countries will be able to cooperate in gathering evidence, securing witness assistance, exchanging information, recovering assets and supporting law enforcement operations across national borders.
The arrangement seeks to improve the investigation and prosecution of offences with international connections while ensuring that both countries’ sovereignty and respective legal systems are respected.
The agreement adds another dimension to the longstanding diplomatic relationship between Eswatini and Taiwan, which have maintained formal ties for 58 years.
King pledges continued support for Taiwan
During a military welcome ceremony in Taipei, King Mswati III assured President Lai that Eswatini would continue supporting Taiwan’s efforts to participate meaningfully in the United Nations and other international organisations and platforms.
The ceremony featured a full military salute in honour of the King, who inspected the guard alongside President Lai ahead of Taiwan’s National Day commemorations.
Addressing the gathering, the King spoke about the importance of sustaining the friendship between the two countries and ensuring that their partnership continued to benefit their respective populations.
“It is a pleasure to stand beside you again, united by our commitment to carry this friendship forward. We approach this visit with confidence in the future of our partnership and a determination to ensure that it continues to bring lasting benefits to our peoples.”
King Mswati III also conveyed his wishes for peace, wellbeing and prosperity for the people of Taiwan, thanking the Taiwanese leadership for the reception extended to him and his delegation.
“May the people of Taiwan continue to enjoy peace, wellbeing and prosperity. Thank you once again for the honour bestowed upon us and for the warmth of your welcome. May the friendship between the Kingdom of Eswatini and Taiwan continue to grow from strength to strength.”
President Lai expressed gratitude for the continued support Taiwan receives from King Mswati III and the Government of Eswatini.
He noted that the two countries had enjoyed diplomatic relations for 58 years and described their ties as strong, while expressing a desire to deepen cooperation in the years ahead.
