Lithuania seeks to normalise diplomatic relations with China

Lithuania’s acting foreign minister, Kęstutis Budrys, has outlined the new government’s foreign policy goals, including plans to normalise diplomatic relations with China, LRT reports.

Budrys stated that progress is being made, though the move has drawn sharp criticism from opposition members, who accuse the ruling coalition of yielding to communist China. The government insists no concessions will be made to Beijing.

The proposal aims to restore diplomatic ties to the level seen in other EU member states. However, critics argue this approach risks surrendering leverage to China. Audronius Ažubalis, a conservative MP, warned that Lithuania’s stated intent to normalise relations could embolden Beijing to dictate terms.

Relations between Lithuania and China deteriorated in 2021 after the conservative-led government opened a Taiwanese representative office in Vilnius. In response, China downgraded diplomatic ties and recalled its ambassador. The former Chinese embassy in Lithuania now operates as a temporary liaison office.

Budrys defended the push for normalisation, citing economic security concerns. “It is unacceptable for Lithuania not to have proper diplomatic representation to address our issues,” he said. Remigijus Motuzas, chair of the Seimas Foreign Affairs Committee, added that accrediting diplomats in China would improve intelligence and consular services, including visa processing.

Opposition MPs, however, fear the move could jeopardise Lithuania’s cooperation with Taiwan. Žygimantas Pavilionis, another conservative MP, mocked the government’s stance, suggesting it prioritises relations with Beijing over Taipei. Motuzas reassured that Lithuania would not abandon its economic cooperation with Taiwan, stating that discussions with the Foreign Ministry are ongoing and no political concessions will be made to China.

In June, the Foreign Ministry announced a temporary halt to economic negotiations between Lithuania and Taiwan, citing the government transition. The ministry has not specified when talks will resume.