Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini of the Kingdom of Eswatini has embarked on a series of strategic bilateral engagements in 2025, signaling the country’s growing commitment to international cooperation across agriculture, diplomacy, and human rights. His participation in the World Food Forum and the 80th Anniversary of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in Rome marked a significant moment for Eswatini’s global outreach. During a high-level meeting with FAO Director-General Dr. Qu Dongyu, Prime Minister Dlamini reaffirmed Eswatini’s dedication to transforming its agrifood systems and enhancing national food security. Dr. Dongyu welcomed the signing of a host country agreement, which will deepen collaboration between FAO and Eswatini, and commended the government’s progress in agricultural development. The meeting underscored FAO’s continued support for Eswatini’s national strategies and its role in advancing sustainable food systems.
Earlier in the year, Prime Minister Dlamini met with Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba on the sidelines of Expo 2025 in Osaka, where discussions focused on strengthening bilateral ties in trade, education, and infrastructure. Prime Minister Ishiba praised Eswatini’s active participation in the Expo and expressed optimism about expanding cooperation through platforms such as TICAD 9, the Tokyo International Conference on African Development. The dialogue reflected Japan’s growing interest in African partnerships and Eswatini’s openness to global collaboration, particularly in areas that support economic growth and technological advancement.
In July, Eswatini hosted a delegation from the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR) as part of its Promotion Mission. Led by Commissioner Rémy Ngoy Lumbu, the delegation engaged in constructive discussions with Prime Minister Dlamini on key human rights issues, including judicial independence and the protection of human rights defenders. The talks highlighted Eswatini’s willingness to engage with continental institutions and its commitment to addressing governance challenges through dialogue and reform. The ACHPR’s visit was seen as a positive step toward strengthening democratic institutions and promoting accountability.
These bilateral meetings illustrate Prime Minister Dlamini’s proactive diplomatic agenda and Eswatini’s strategic efforts to enhance its global standing. By engaging with international organizations and foreign governments, Eswatini is positioning itself as a forward-looking nation committed to sustainable development, human rights, and regional cooperation. The outcomes of these engagements are expected to yield long-term benefits for the country’s governance, economic resilience, and international partnerships.