Starting next Tuesday, nationals from the Kingdom of Eswatini will face a significant change in travel procedures as they will be required to obtain a visa for entry into Hong Kong, including those intending to transit at the city’s airport. Previously, Eswatini citizens enjoyed a visa-free privilege for a duration of up to 90 days when visiting Hong Kong.
Hong Kong, maintaining an open visa policy for nationals from approximately 170 countries and territories, has traditionally facilitated visa-free visits for periods spanning from seven to 180 days. An Immigration Department spokesperson shared insights on the adjustment, stating, “The Immigration Department reviews its visa policy from time to time and makes adjustments as necessary to uphold immigration control while facilitating travel convenience for genuine visitors.”
The rationale behind this policy shift remains unclear. When questioned about a potential connection to Eswatini’s diplomatic ties with Taipei, the spokesperson responded, “The Immigration Department reviews its visa policy from time to time and makes adjustments as necessary to uphold immigration control while facilitating travel convenience for genuine visitors.”
This modification is poised to inconvenience numerous travelers, a development occurring as Hong Kong endeavors to revitalize its tourism sector amid the economic challenges following the Covid-19 pandemic. Data obtained from the Immigration Department by HKFP reveals that 97 Eswatini nationals visited Hong Kong between January and November of the previous year. Although the years 2021 and 2022 witnessed only three arrivals, the context is essential to note, considering the persisting Covid-19 travel restrictions.
In a broader geopolitical context, Beijing’s communist government has consistently asserted that Taiwan is one of its provinces and has not ruled out the use of force to achieve reunification. The recent re-establishment of diplomatic ties between China and Nauru, with the South Pacific nation severing connections with Taiwan, exemplifies China’s strategy to diminish Taipei’s global alliances. Amid speculations about Tuvalu possibly following suit, Taipei has sought to dispel such concerns.
At present, Taiwan enjoys full recognition from twelve remaining states, including the Holy See and Eswatini, amidst the evolving dynamics of international relations.
