Lithuania's Prime Minister Aims to Re-establish Diplomatic Ties with China

April 16, 2025 – In a significant shift in foreign policy, Lithuanian Prime Minister Gintautas Paluckas announced his government’s intentions to restore diplomatic relations with China. This move comes more than three years after ties between the two nations deteriorated over Lithuania’s decision to permit Taiwan to establish a representative office in Vilnius under the name “Taiwanese Representative Office in Lithuania.”

Background of Tensions

The decision by Lithuania to allow the Taiwanese office was met with stern disapproval from Beijing, which considers Taiwan a part of its territory under the "One China" policy. In response to Lithuania's actions in 2021, China recalled its ambassador to Vilnius and expelled Lithuania’s ambassador to Beijing, marking a low point in bilateral relations. A key condition for normalizing ties has been the name of Taiwan's representative office, which Beijing wants changed to align with its stance on Taiwan.

Diplomatic Aspirations

During a press conference on Tuesday, Prime Minister Paluckas emphasized the importance of Lithuania within the European Union and expressed that China, if it aims to have interests within the EU, should seek friendly relations with all member states, including Lithuania. Paluckas stated, “If the Chinese have interests or plans in the EU, Lithuania is one of the EU countries. Lithuania's voice in Europe is certainly not the last one.”

To illustrate his commitment, Paluckas suggested that a straightforward approach to mend relations could involve both countries exchanging ambassadors once again. He stated, “The simple way would be for China to send its ambassador to Vilnius and Lithuania to send its representative to Beijing.”

Political Considerations

Despite the potential benefits of improved diplomatic relations with China, Paluckas recognizes the political risks associated with such a pivot. He emphasized that respectful bilateral relations should not come at the expense of national dignity or require any sacrifices, saying, “Respectful bilateral relations are not based on sacrifice, humiliation, or demands to apologise, but on a very businesslike basis.”

The shift in strategy follows the Lithuanian parliamentary elections held in October 2024, where Paluckas, representing the Social Democratic Party of Lithuania, was appointed as prime minister. His government is now focusing on re-establishing full diplomatic relations with China.

Opposition to the Shift

However, not everyone in Lithuania supports this diplomatic thaw. Gabrielius Landsbergis, the former foreign minister and leader of the opposition Homeland Union – Lithuania's Christian Democrats, has criticized the government's approach. During a recent visit to Taipei, Landsbergis remarked that it would be an “enormous mistake” to give in to China’s demands regarding the name of Taiwan's representative office.

Broader EU Context

At the European level, there are signs of warming relations between the EU and China, as European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Chinese Premier Li Qiang agreed to hold an EU-China summit in July 2025. This context may influence Lithuania's strategic considerations as it navigates its diplomatic future with China.

In a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape, Paluckas's government continues to explore avenues for dialogue and engagement, but the legacy of previous decisions and domestic political sentiments will be crucial in shaping the next steps of Lithuania’s foreign relations.