Lithuania, one of the three Baltic states, has been deteriorating relations with China over the opening of a Taiwanese branch office and has returned all diplomats and their families who had previously been stationed in Beijing.
In Lithuania, a Taiwanese branch office named "Taiwan" was opened last month, and China has strongly opposed it, such as downgrading diplomatic relations with Lithuania.
On the 15th, the Lithuanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced on its website that the head of the diplomatic mission in China had returned to Japan for consultation, and announced that it would "continue to work remotely for the time being."
"All Lithuanian diplomatic staff and their families left Beijing on the morning of the 15th. It was up to Lithuanians themselves to decide what was best for their mission and staff," a spokesman for the EU-European Union said. rice field.
"The diplomats had to return home because of their uncertain legal status," the Lithuanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs told NHK.
"No decision has yet been made" as to whether China will continue to accept Lithuanian diplomats.
In Lithuania, exports to China have not been approved by Chinese customs procedures since the beginning of this month, and we are requesting the EU to take action.
Taiwan "Continue to be with Lithuania"
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Taiwan said, "We have the highest respect for the Lithuanian government's position and willingness to develop relations with Taiwan even if the Chinese government continues to threaten diplomacy and the economy. Taiwan will continue to be with Lithuania. I will make another statement. "