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World
Taiwan's Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung, during a visit to Eswatini, condemned steps taken by China recently to pressure several African countries into canceling overflight permits for the island's president's aircraft, affirming that Taiwan will not "bow," according to AFP.
Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te had postponed a state visit to Eswatini (formerly Swaziland) last week after several countries, including Seychelles, Mauritius, and Madagascar, suddenly withdrew transit permits for his aircraft to fly through their airspace.
Eswatini is one of 12 countries that still recognizes Taiwan's sovereignty, which China considers an inseparable part of its territory and hints at reunifying with, by force if necessary.
Lin represented Taiwan's president at the 40th anniversary of King Mswati III's accession to the throne in Eswatini, having arrived in the African kingdom on Saturday.
Lin wrote on Facebook on Sunday: "No matter what political power China uses to interfere in international civil aviation operations and to politicize and exploit aviation data, Taiwan will not bow, and the course of our progress will not stop," as he expressed it.
He continued: "No blockade or pressure will undermine our determination to protect our dignity and maintain our ties with the international community."
The United States condemned the Chinese "intimidation campaign" against Taiwan and its allies.
Beijing, in contrast, considered there was "no basis" for the American accusations, insisting that its steps were legitimate.
Washington does not officially recognize Taiwan, but it is the island's main military supporter, although this support has diminished somewhat under President Donald Trump.
