Beijing Criticizes Taiwan's Leader Lai Ching-te Amid Diplomatic Tensions
China has issued a strong rebuke against Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te, likening him to a 'rat crossing the street' following his unannounced visit to Eswatini. This visit is seen by Beijing as a challenge to the one-China principle. Lai's trip was initially postponed due to revoked overflight permits, attributed to Chinese pressure. Despite this, Lai proceeded with the visit using an Eswatini government aircraft. Eswatini remains one of the few countries maintaining formal diplomatic ties with Taiwan. China's Taiwan Affairs Office criticized Lai for prioritizing the visit over domestic concerns, such as a recent earthquake in Taiwan.