Dr. Lin Chia-lung
Minister of Foreign Affairs
Republic of China (Taiwan)
April 25, 2025
(As Prepared for Delivery)
Ladies and gentlemen:
It is my pleasure to be visiting Mbabane (m-ba-ba-ne) Government Hospital. I am also here to meet with the Taiwan Medical Mission, who have faithfully worked in Eswatini for many years. I bring you greetings and admiration from the people of Taiwan.
In 2007, Taiwan and Eswatini signed a medical cooperation agreement. For nearly 20 years, our nations have jointly promoted personnel training, disease prevention, cancer treatment, public health, and other important programs. I had the opportunity to see the hospital’s Referral and Emergency Complex today. The building was constructed with Taiwan’s support. It is an example of the results that our partnership has achieved. Medical cooperation is about more than treating disease. It is a bridge that joins our countries together. This has made a deep impression on me during this trip.
Today, I am pleased to announce that we will set up a smart health care demonstration project at the hospital. The plan is part of Taiwan’s efforts to support smart medicine and health care in Eswatini. We will also donate a CT scanner, smart fundus cameras, and patient simulators. This cutting-edge equipment will further improve the quality of services, diagnosis, treatment, and patient care at the hospital.
On behalf of the people of Taiwan, I would also like to thank Minister Matsebula (ma-tse-bu-la). We are very grateful for the support that Eswatini has given Taiwan at the World Health Assembly. For many years, you have spoken up for Taiwan’s right to participate in the World Health Organization. Eswatini stands with Taiwan not only because it recognizes our contributions to the international community, but also because it is committed to enhancing the health and well-being of people everywhere.
We deeply appreciate the government of Eswatini, the leadership of Mbabane (m-ba-ba-ne) Government Hospital, and all the medical staff who have made this collaboration possible. Thanks to your dedication, the partnership between Taiwan and Eswatini has helped protect people’s health and deepened the bonds between our nations.
Finally, I would like to once again thank the Taiwan Medical Mission for their hard work as well as the government and people of Eswatini for their trust and support over the years. Looking ahead, Taiwan will continue to work with Eswatini to create coprosperity. We will deepen cooperation on smart health care, chronic disease prevention, and talent exchange. These efforts will further strengthen health system resilience. They also exemplify the spirit of friendship and mutual support that transcend the distance between Taiwan and Eswatini.
Let us keep working together to make the world a healthier, happier, and more hopeful place. Thank you.