Ambassador and Mrs. Liang hosted the 108th National Day Reception at Royal Swazi Spa Oct. 3rd. Ambassador Liang delivered his remarks as follows:

Your royal highness Prince Hlangabeza, His Majesty King Mswati III’s representative; royal highnesses; honorable royal councilors and chiefs; excellencies; members of the diplomatic corps; senior government officials; community leaders; members of the media; ladies and gentlemen, good evening SANIBONNANI NONKHE NINE BEKUNENE.

On behalf of the government and 23 million people of Taiwan, I warmly thank each and every one of you for joining us in celebrating Double Tenth National Day. My wife Nina and I are honored to host this special occasion in the company of such fine friends.

As you all know, this is our second year in the Kingdom of Eswatini. Yes. We’re even more impressed by the rich culture and stunning natural scenery of our home away from home. But these are not the Beautiful Kingdom’s greatest treasures. The genuine kindness, hospitality and warmth of the people are priceless, and truly warrant sharing far and wide.

Taiwan and its 23 million people are also known for these qualities. This is one of the reasons for the success of our bilateral relations. Others, of course, are trust, a heartfelt friendship and a shared desire to build better tomorrows.

Some describe Eswatini as Taiwan’s last diplomatic ally in Africa. This always upsets me. I see the Beautiful Kingdom as a beacon of goodness and hope, shining bright against the forces of might. When we get down to the heart of the matter, Taiwan is the perfect partner in realizing his majesty’s Vision 2022 strategy. No challenge or hurdle is too big for us to overcome together.

Case in point is the past 17 months. Our countries have signed seven joint agreements spanning areas such as education, economic cooperation, health care, women’s economic empowerment and visa waivers for Eswatini nationals. The future is bright, and there’s enormous potential for more bilateral collaboration.

This spirit of cooperation was on full display for the world to see at the U.N. General Assembly in New York. His majesty urged Taiwan’s inclusion in the U.N. on a dignified and equal footing. He also spoke of the many ways Taiwan Can Help realise the Sustainable Development Goals and build better tomorrows for all.

Such sentiments personally touched Taiwan’s 23 million people. I am humbled by the support and love for Taiwan of his majesty. For this, I say thank you from the bottom of my heart.

Taiwan and the Eswatini are True Friends and Partners in Prosperity. We’ll continue growing together, cooperating together and striving to achieve sustainable development. The sky really is the limit, especially given the philosophy defining bilateral ties over the past 51 years: Promises made, promises kept.

Please join me in toasting the good health and happiness of his majesty, and our countries’ rock-solid partnership. Thank you! NGIYABONGA KAKHULU!