Lithuania Eyes Reconciliation with China

Vilnius (TDI): After a three-year diplomatic strain following Lithuania’s controversial approval of a “Taiwanese Representative Office” in Vilnius, Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda and incoming coalition leader Gintautas Paluckas have expressed interest in restoring ties with China.

The initial decision, which appeared to challenge Beijing’s “One China” policy, had resulted in China downgrading diplomatic relations with Lithuania and imposing trade restrictions, particularly impacting Lithuanian exports of cheese, grain, and timber.

President Nausėda recently voiced his support for the new government’s stance, hoping that Beijing might reconsider its position and reinstate full diplomatic representation.

Paluckas, whose Social Democratic Party secured a parliamentary win, acknowledged Lithuania’s “grave diplomatic mistake” and pledged to work toward reviving cooperation with China.

China-Lithuania relations soured in 2021 when Lithuania allowed the opening of a Taiwanese office, defying China’s warnings that it would damage diplomatic relations.

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In response, China reduced its diplomatic representation in Lithuania and imposed restrictions on Lithuanian imports. Earlier this year, Nausėda had suggested renaming the office to “Taipei Representative Office” to align with international norms and ease tensions.

The change in tone from Lithuania’s leadership reflects what analysts call a pragmatic shift, driven by public opinion favoring practical relations with Beijing.

Polls indicate that a majority of Lithuanians support friendly ties with China, with many expressing concern about the economic impact of strained relations.

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The incoming Lithuanian government’s openness to dialogue with China comes at a crucial time, particularly with Russia relations already strained.

Political observers say that reestablishing ties with Beijing may offer Lithuania more balanced diplomatic options amid shifting international dynamics following U.S. presidential elections.