China wary of Lithuanian domino effect over de facto Taiwan embassy

Observers say there are deep concerns in Beijing that other European countries could follow the Baltic state’s lead

The recall of China’s ambassador to Lithuania was met with a firm response from Vilnius

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Beijing’s decision to recall its ambassador from Lithuania could have a domino effect in Europe, according to China observers. Photo: EPA-EFE

Published: 11:00pm, 11 Aug 2021Updated: 4:11pm, 13 Aug 2021

China’s strong reaction to Lithuania’s decision to allow Taiwan to open a de facto embassy is due to a deep concern that more countries will follow the Baltic state’s lead, setting off a domino effect in Europe, China observers said.

China recalled its Lithuanian ambassador on Tuesday in response to Vilnius’ move to allow the self-ruled island – which Beijing regards as part of its territory – to set up a representative office under the name of “Taiwan”.

Beijing said the decision was a violation of the one-China policy, a key cornerstone of Chinese policymaking and diplomacy.

It was the first time China had recalled an ambassador from an EU member state since the bloc was established in 1993. But observers said Beijing may not achieve its desired outcome this time.

Hours after Beijing‘s announcement, Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda said that as a sovereign country, Lithuania would decide its foreign policy for itself and urged Beijing to change its decision.

“Sino-Lithuanian relations should be based on the principle of mutual respect. Otherwise, the dialogue turns into one-sided ultimatums, which is unacceptable in international relations,” he told the Baltic News Service. “At the same time, as a sovereign state, Lithuania itself decides with which states or territories to develop economic and cultural relations, without violating its international obligations.”

In the absence of formal ties, Taiwan has established representative offices, under the name of the capital Taipei, as de facto embassies.