Lithuania, China in talks to normalize diplomatic relations – minister

VILNIUS - Lithuanian and Chinese officials are talking about the possible normalization of diplomatic relations, Lithuanian Foreign Minister Gabrielius Landsbergis says.

"I would not like to speak about the scope right now, but talks are definitely taking place. And even right now," Lithuania's top diplomat told reporters on Friday when asked about the possible return of ambassadors to both countries.

China downgraded its diplomatic representation with Lithuania in 2021 and imposed trade restrictions after Lithuania allowed Taiwan to open a representative office in the name of the island in Vilnius. Beijing viewed this as Lithuania's support for Taiwan to act as an independent state.

China seeks to isolate Taipei on the world stage and avoids using the word 'Taiwan' in any way not to give the island international legitimacy.

Taiwan's Foreign Minister Joseph Wu is in Lithuania right now and n Thursday he met with Speaker of the Lithuanian Seimas Viktorija Cmilyte-Nielsen, who has recently visited Taiwan, as well as some lawmakers, but he did not meet with representatives of the executive branch.

Lithuania's leader and Landsbergis made this decision in line with the "One China" principle and avoided any reference to recognition of Taiwan.