Africa-Press – Eswatini. Emaswati students repatriated from Ukraine have expressed appreciation to Their Majesties for their efforts in ensuring their safe return home.
Tema Vilane, a fourth-year Business Management student narrated the horrific ordeal that they went through fleeing Ukraine after the country was invaded by Russia, and thanked Their Majesties and all stakeholders who played a role in successfully bringing them home.
This was during the students’ welcoming luncheon hosted by the Republic of China (Taiwan) Embassy in Eswatini at the Nkonyeni Lodge and Golf Estate yesterday.
The luncheon was graced by Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Corporation Thuli Dladla and the Principal Secretary Melusi Masuku as well as Taiwan Ambassador to Eswatini Jeremy Liang.
“We thank Their Majesties and government through the ministry of foreign affairs for all they did to ensure that we came back home safely.
There were a lot of people who were calling us, and this was comforting because it showed that a lot of people were concerned and working towards making sure that we returned home safe and sound,’ she said.
The youngster also thanked Minister Dladla for her patience and dedication and for consistently being there for them throughout their journey.
“I first texted the minister the day I heard of the invasion, and she was very welcoming to us and not only did she respond swiftly, but she kept in touch till the day we returned home.
“There were times where I felt like giving up, but she would remind me of how strong I am and motivate me to be strong for not only myself but the entire team of students I was leading, and for that we are more than grateful,” she said.
Minister Dladla hailed the students for their bravery, courage, tenacity and strong will in the face of immense distress, especially since they come from peaceful background in Eswatini.
“You are intelligent, independent and engaged in the unfolding issues of this world.
You are exactly what this country has been waiting for. Patriots who recognise the value of a universal education and have never cut their umbilical ties to this nation,” said the minister.
She also expressed gratitude to the Republic of China (Taiwan) for facilitating safe accommodation for the students in Romania, and also ensuring that they had air tickets to get them back home.
“This would certainly not have been possible without the considerable financial input from our longstanding, loyal and committed diplomatic partner, the Republic of China (Taiwan).
“I express my unreserved gratitude for the generosity and immediate call to action.
His Excellency, Ambassador Jeremy Liang made it his personal mission to immediately engage Taipei for authority to rescue the students, without the issue of cost. In true friendship, Taipei responded without delay in the affirmative and resources were deployed at their offices in that region to ensure the safe return of Emaswati.
I would like to appreciate most sincerely, the Taiwanese offices in Hungary and Slovakia for assisting with accommodation, COVID-19 tests for the students and general counselling,” she said.The minister made special mention of the Taiwanese representatives in Hungary who made personal sacrifices to provide lunch for the students.
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