Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te has postponed an official trip to Eswatini, the democratic island¡¯s only diplomatic ally in Africa, after several countries revoked overflight permits following ¡°intense pressure¡± from China, a senior aide said Tuesday.

China claims Taiwan is part of its territory and opposes the self-governed island¡¯s participation in international organizations and exchanges with other countries.

Lai was due to visit Eswatini from April 22 to 26 for the 40th anniversary of King Mswati III¡¯s accession and his 58th birthday.