The Chinese authorities have downgraded diplomatic relations with Lithuania to the level of chargé d’affaires
The reason for this step was the opening of a representative office of Taiwan in Vilnius. Beijing views it as a violation of the principle of “one China” and its territorial integrity, as well as interference in its internal affairs.
“China expresses its sharp displeasure and strong protest in this regard and has decided to downgrade Sino-Lithuanian diplomatic relations to the level of chargé d’affaires”, – said a statement from an official spokesman of China’s Foreign Ministry.
As a reminder, a mission of Taiwan opened in Lithuania on November 18, despite strong protests from Beijing. Lithuania became the first country that allowed Taiwan to open an office with the word “Taiwan” instead of “Taipei” in its name. The fundamental difference is that although Taiwan has de facto representative offices in other countries, the name of the offices includes the city of Taipei.