Lithuania's Prime Minister Pushes to Restore Diplomatic Relations with China

In a significant move aimed at mending diplomatic ties, Lithuanian Prime Minister Gintautas Paluckas has expressed his intention to restore relations with China. This decision comes amidst ongoing tensions that began in 2021 when Lithuania permitted Taiwan to establish a representative office in Vilnius under the name “Taiwanese Representative Office in Lithuania.”

Historical Context

The decision to allow Taiwan's office sparked a swift and negative response from Beijing, which views Taiwan as a breakaway province. Following the office's opening, China recalled its ambassador to Lithuania and expelled Lithuania’s ambassador to Beijing. As a consequence, diplomatic relations between the two countries deteriorated sharply. To normalize relations, Beijing has consistently demanded that Vilnius change the name of Taiwan's office, viewing it as a challenge to its "One China" policy.

Current Developments

During a press conference on Tuesday, Prime Minister Paluckas highlighted Lithuania’s strategic position within the European Union, implying that any Chinese interests in the EU should not disregard Lithuania. “If the Chinese have interests or plans in the EU, Lithuania is one of the EU countries," Paluckas noted. He stressed that China would logically seek to maintain diplomatic relations with Lithuania as part of its broader engagement with the European Union.

The Prime Minister suggested that the time for resolution of this diplomatic rift is opportune, especially as the EU looks to strengthen its economic ties with China amidst changing dynamics in US-China relations. However, Paluckas acknowledged that aligning with Chinese expectations could present political challenges, stating, "We will not sacrifice anything as respectful bilateral relations are not based on sacrifice, humiliation, or demands to apologize, but on a very businesslike basis."

To ease tensions, Paluckas proposed a straightforward solution: a reciprocal exchange of ambassadors between Lithuania and China could pave the way for restoring diplomatic links.

Political Landscape and Future Steps

Paluckas, representing the Social Democratic Party of Lithuania, was appointed Prime Minister following the parliamentary elections in October 2024, during which he vowed to pursue the restoration of full diplomatic relations with China. In a related statement, Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda suggested that modifying the office's name could facilitate normalizing relations.

However, opinions within the Lithuanian government remain divided. Former Foreign Minister Gabrielius Landsbergis, a prominent figure in the opposition Homeland Union, has vocally opposed changing the office's name, calling it an “enormous mistake." Landsbergis articulated his concern during a visit to Taipei in January, highlighting the delicate balance Lithuania faces in navigating its international relationships.

Broader EU Context

At the EU level, relations with China are showing signs of gradual improvement. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Chinese Premier Li Qiang are set to discuss enhanced ties in an upcoming EU-China summit scheduled for July 2025. As Lithuania considers its approach, the evolving context of EU-China relations could play a crucial role in shaping Vilnius' diplomatic future.

In conclusion, as Lithuania's government seeks to repair its relationship with China, the path forward may depend on balancing national interests and foreign diplomacy while addressing internal political divisions.