Lithuania's Support for Taiwan Remains Strong, Unchanged by China Relations

Lithuanian parliamentary speaker J. Olekas reiterated the country's robust support for Taiwan, stating that "Every letter, every piece of information – it must be taken into account." He emphasized solidarity with democratic nations striving to maintain their democratic systems. "We support those democratic states and democratic societies that seek to preserve their democracy," Olekas said during a radio interview.

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Every letter, every piece of information – it must be taken into account.

However, Olekas was careful to clarify that Lithuania's expressed solidarity with Taiwan does not signify a change in its policy toward normalizing diplomatic relations with China. "Regarding our relations with China, we want nothing more than European countries, so we are talking about that and talking with Taiwan about fulfilling promises made when adopting previous decisions," he explained.

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We support those democratic states and democratic societies that seek to preserve their democracy.

Olekas expressed anticipation for a reciprocal response from Taiwan, stating, "I believe that these steps are correct and our support for the Taiwanese is strong. We are waiting for a response from the Taiwanese as well." This statement comes in the context of a joint letter sent by members of the U.S. Congressional Taiwan Caucus to Lithuanian leaders, urging continued firm support for the democratically governed island, which China claims as its own and threatens to annex, by force if necessary.

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Regarding our relations with China, we want nothing more than European countries, so we are talking about that and talking with Taiwan about fulfilling promises made when adopting previous decisions.

The U.S. lawmakers praised Lithuania's "friendship and strong support for freedom worldwide" and commended its decision to establish a Taiwanese Representative Office in Lithuania in 2021. They also lauded Lithuania's withdrawal from the "17+1" format, initiated by China, and its leadership in encouraging other Baltic states to do the same. The letter highlights Lithuania's role as a "strong leader among European Union countries, resisting the influence of autocrats." Despite these commendations, the U.S. representatives urged continued resistance against China's ongoing pressure.

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I believe that these steps are correct and our support for the Taiwanese is strong. We are waiting for a response from the Taiwanese as well.