Lithuania expels three Chinese diplomats over law violations

Lithuania has taken a significant diplomatic step by expelling three staff members from China's representative office, a move announced on November 29, 2024. The Lithuanian Foreign Ministry stated that these individuals were declared persona non grata due to their actions being incompatible with the principles outlined in the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations. Although specific details regarding the violations were not disclosed, the expulsion marks a continuation of Lithuania's tense relations with China, notably since the decision in 2021 to permit Taiwan to establish a representative office in Vilnius. This earlier decision led to retaliatory measures from Beijing, including the expulsion of the Lithuanian ambassador from China and trade sanctions against Lithuania. Subsequently, Lithuania's diplomatic stance has regularly included calls for dialogue with Beijing despite the escalating tensions, illustrated by its withdrawal of personnel from China in late 2021 due to worsening relations. The broader implications of these actions reflect growing concerns in several Western nations about Chinese diplomatic practices, particularly regarding espionage. The case illustrates Lithuania's willingness to confront Beijing's influence and highlight its support for Taiwan amidst increasing geopolitical tensions over the island's status, which China claims as its own. A crucial aspect of this situation is the persistent diplomatic strain between Lithuania and China, as displayed through sanctions and public allegations of espionage linked to Chinese operations abroad, which have led to heightened scrutiny of Chinese diplomats within Europe and beyond.