Lithuania expels Chinese diplomats, deepening tensions
Lithuania has declared three Chinese diplomats persona non grata after they violated the Vienna Convention. This decision deepens the tensions between Vilnius and Beijing.
4:16 PM EST, November 29, 2024
Lithuania has decided to expel three Chinese diplomats for violating the Vienna Convention and Lithuanian law. According to the Lithuanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the decision was based on information from relevant authorities, although specific details have not been disclosed. The diplomats have one week to leave the country.
Tensions between Vilnius and Beijing
Lithuania and China have deteriorated since 2021, when a Taiwanese representative office was opened in Vilnius. In response, Beijing suspended diplomatic relations with Lithuania and imposed an economic blockade. The current decision to expel the diplomats may further strain these relations.
The Lithuanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasizes that despite the current difficulties, Lithuania remains open to dialogue with China to resolve bilateral issues. However, the situation is tense, and the future of relations between these countries remains uncertain.