The United States is criticizing Beijing and the three countries that revoked flight permits for President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) to Taiwan’s African ally, Eswatini. U.S. officials say the countries are acting at China's behest by interfering with the safety and dignity of routine travel by Taiwan officials, according to an email to CNA.

Lai had been scheduled to depart Taipei on Tuesday, but the trip was delayed after Seychelles, Mauritius, and Madagascar revoked overflight permissions for his chartered aircraft.

The U.S. Department of State says it is concerned about reports that multiple countries have withdrawn flight clearances, effectively preventing Taiwan’s president from visiting Eswatini.

The department says the actions, reportedly taken at China’s request, interfered with the safety and dignity of routine travel by Taiwanese officials. It says the move is an example of China “waging its intimidation campaign against Taiwan and Taiwan's supporters around the world, abusing the international civil aviation system, and threatening international peace and prosperity.”

The U.S. Department of State is urging Beijing to cease its military, diplomatic, and economic pressure against Taiwan and instead engage in meaningful dialogue.