The United States is condemning what it calls an abuse of the international
civil aviation system after three African nations blocked Taiwan's
presidential aircraft from crossing their airspace.

Seychelles, Mauritius, and Madagascar revoked overflight permits for
President Lai Ching-te's planned trip to Eswatini, one of Taiwan's 12
remaining diplomatic allies.

A State Department spokesperson told Reuters the countries were acting at
China's behest.

Taiwan's security officials say China threatened the three nations with
economic sanctions, including revoking debt relief.

China denied the claim but praised the countries for adhering to the
one-China principle.

The EU and Britain's de facto ambassador to Taiwan also expressed concern,
saying airspace decisions should not be used as political tools.

It is the first time a Taiwan president has had to cancel a foreign trip over
denied airspace access.

(PB)