Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Senator Pholile Shakantu has called on Eswatini’s diplomatic missions to move beyond routine representation and actively support national development, facilitate investment and trade, strengthen bilateral and multilateral partnerships and safeguard the interests of the kingdom in an increasingly competitive global environment.
Shakantu made the remarks on Tuesday, April 29, 2026, when she delivered opening remarks at the Consultative Programme for Ambassadors held at Royal Villas in Ezulwini, convened under the theme “Aligning Eswatini’s Diplomatic Missions with Government Development Priorities while strengthening governance, compliance, and institutional effectiveness.”
The meeting was attended by Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini, the Principal Secretary, Heads of Mission, the Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, senior government officials and distinguished delegates.
Shakantu told the gathering that the world is undergoing significant transformations, with shifting geopolitical alignments, increased competition for influence and growing pressure on multilateral systems making it impossible for diplomacy to remain routine. “Diplomacy can no longer be routine. It must be purposeful, coordinated, and firmly anchored in national priorities,” she said.
She said the current global moment calls for a deliberate recalibration of how Eswatini positions itself externally, with diplomatic missions expected to do far more than represent the kingdom at ceremonial functions.
The Minister also drew attention to the opening of the Ezulwini Palazzo International Convention Centre, inaugurated by His Majesty King Mswati III, describing it as a significant milestone that illustrates Eswatini’s ambition to establish itself as a prime destination for high-level international engagements. She said the facility showcases the kingdom’s readiness to embrace a transformative chapter, positioning it as a premier destination for diplomacy and business exchanges.
“This new venue showcased Eswatini’s readiness to embrace a transformative chapter, positioning us as a premier destination for diplomacy and business exchanges. It signifies our commitment to facilitate international events and foster meaningful relationships on the global stage,” Shakantu said.
She said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is dedicated to ensuring the Convention Centre remains a vibrant hub of activity by consistently sourcing a diverse portfolio of engagements, and that achieving this requires intentional conference diplomacy and a coordinated outreach strategy by government to connect and collaborate with stakeholders worldwide.
Shakantu welcomed the presence of the Prime Minister at the consultative meeting, saying his attendance was valued as an opportunity for the ministry to hear directly about the Grand Plan and Government’s Development Priorities and align accordingly. “This consultative platform with you, Your Excellency, is both timely and necessary. We are ready to hear from you about the Grand Plan and Government’s Development Priorities,” she said.
