Canada-Swaziland Relations
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Diplomatic relations and official representation
Since the Kingdom of Swaziland gained its independence from Britain in 1968, relations between Canada and Swaziland have been limited, based largely on Commonwealth ties. The Canadian High Commission in South Africa is responsible for representing Canadian interests in Swaziland.
Swaziland maintained a High Commission in Ottawa for a number of years, but this was closed in the 1990s. Swaziland now manages its relations with Canada from Washington, DC.
Bilateral relations
Canada believes that it is important that the Government of Swaziland work to strengthen the rule of law and to establish a constitutional environment that respects human rights and fosters democratic development, in addition to addressing the serious challenges of poverty and disease it is currently facing.
Development Assistance
Canada’s bilateral aid program for Swaziland, which was part of a regional initiative to support the “front line states” during the struggle against apartheid in South Africa, ended in 1992. Funding for small scale development initiatives in Swaziland has been available through the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives. Canada is also a major donor to the World Food Program which is providing food aid to those Swazis affected by ongoing food shortages.
Trade
Canada-Swaziland economic, investment, and trade relations are limited; in 2008, two-way trade totalled C$9.3M. In 2008, Canadian exports to Swaziland were comprised mainly of pharmaceutical products, and cosmetics and perfumery. That same year, Canadian imports from Swaziland were comprised mainly of woven and knit apparel, and machinery. Swaziland is a landlocked, resource-poor country; Canadian investment in Swaziland is virtually non-existent.
October 2009
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