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China has taken such action because of Lithuania’s deepening ties with Taiwan.
“We would also like to maintain relations with China based on the principle of mutual respect. Otherwise, the dialogue will turn into unilateral ultimatums, demands that are unacceptable in international relations,” the country’s leader said on Saturday according to the Financial Times.
Mr. Nausėda emphasized that Lithuania had supported the “one China” policy since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1991. He also expressed the hope that China would change its decision on the ambassador.
“Lithuania, being a sovereign and independent country, is free to decide with which countries or territories it develops economic and cultural relations,” said the president.
A few weeks ago, Taiwan announced the establishment of a representative office in Lithuania, which should start operating this summer. Lithuania should also open a sales office in Taiwan.
The first new diplomatic mission in Europe in 18 years will be called “Taiwan Mission in Lithuania”, not “Taipei Mission”.
China seeks to isolate the island on the world stage and avoids using the word “Taiwan” in any case, so as not to give it international legitimacy.
However, Taiwan actually maintains diplomatic relations with dozens of states through its missions in Taipei.
The Lithuanian Foreign Ministry has previously stated that Lithuania is interested in expanding cooperation with Taiwan in various fields, focusing on the development of economic relations and cultural exchanges.
At that time, representatives of the Taiwanese authorities have named Lithuania as a good partner for the country.
About 23 million. The population of Taiwan, officially known as the ROC, is recognized as a country only by 15 other states. Lithuania is not among them.
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