China politics · April 2026

Taiwan President Lai Ching-te canceled a planned trip to Eswatini at the last minute, blaming Chinese coercion and interference. The cancellation drew multiple headlines, with reports citing Beijing's pressure as the reason for the abrupt change of plans. China firmly opposed Japan's negative moves related to the Yasukuni Shrine, including a ritual offering by the Japanese prime minister, and called on Japan to prevent the resurgence of militarism. Xi Jinping said China is willing to work with Africa on the impact of the Middle East conflict, and urged the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz in a call with Saudi Arabia's de facto ruler. Vanuatu took a swipe at Australia amid reports of a security deal with China, while the Czech prime minister rejected a government plane for the Senate chief's trip to Taiwan. China dialed up pressure after a Japanese destroyer transited the Taiwan Strait, and voiced concern over Japan easing rules on arms exports.