Lithuania Seeks to Strengthen Strategic Ties with Taiwan

Lithuanian Minister of Foreign Affairs Kestutis Budrys expressed his country’s desire to enhance relations with Taiwan during a recent event in Washington. Budrys highlighted the existing strong cooperation between Lithuania and Taiwan, emphasizing the importance of forming “strategic partnerships” to counter rising threats from authoritarian regimes.

In a statement to reporters, Budrys noted, “We are looking forward to expanding it, especially in sectors where we need technological cooperation to become stronger.” He underscored the significance of these partnerships in areas that face challenges from authoritarian governments worldwide, although he did not provide specific examples.

Shared Interests and Global Consequences

Budrys pointed out that Lithuania and Taiwan are linked by a shared commitment to cooperation, especially in the context of pressures from Russia and China. He remarked on the interconnectedness of the Indo-Pacific region and Europe, stating that conflicts in one area inevitably affect the other. “When a major conflict occurs in the Indo-Pacific region, it is bound to have consequences for Europe,” he explained. He added that developments involving NATO and Russia could similarly impact the Indo-Pacific.

Budrys warned that Beijing might observe and replicate Moscow’s actions in the Indo-Pacific, reinforcing the need for increased defense spending among European nations. He acknowledged the ongoing efforts by the United States to encourage European countries to bolster their military capabilities, reiterating the concept of “peace through strength.”

Strengthening Diplomatic Ties Despite Challenges

Budrys, who has served as Lithuania’s foreign minister since the new government took office on December 12, 2022, remarked on the warming ties between Lithuania and Taiwan. This relationship has strengthened since both nations established reciprocal representative offices. However, Lithuania’s decision in 2021 to name Taiwan’s representative office in Vilnius with the term “Taiwanese” has drawn strong objections from Beijing, which views this as a challenge to its sovereignty claims over Taiwan.

In response to Lithuania’s actions, China recalled its ambassador from Vilnius, expelled Lithuania’s ambassador to Beijing, and suspended direct freight rail services to Lithuania. Additionally, it imposed severe restrictions on Lithuanian exports to the Chinese market. Despite these repercussions, Lithuania has remained firm on the name of Taiwan’s representative office and has sought to restore diplomatic ties with China since the new government took office.

Budrys’ statements reflect a broader trend among countries willing to engage with Taiwan despite pressure from Beijing, highlighting Lithuania’s commitment to fostering meaningful partnerships in the face of global challenges.