[Epoch Times December 16, 2021](Epoch Times reporter Li Xin compiled a report) After Lithuanian diplomats and their families hurriedly evacuated Beijing, the country is planning to ask European leaders for help to counter the pressure from the Chinese Communist Party. Despite Beijing’s denial, people still worry about the safety of Lithuanian diplomats.
According to a Reuters report on the 16th, Asta Skaisgiryte, an adviser to the President of Lithuania, told the public broadcaster of the country that the leader of the Baltic country would seek help from his European counterparts.
“The President will discuss with the EU leaders the pressure we are facing, and we think this will lead to discussions on how the EU, especially the European Commission, can help Lithuania on this issue,” Skegerit said.
“We hope that our European partners are aware of this conflict and that economic actions are as extensive as possible,” she added.
After the Taiwan government set up a representative office in Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, in the name of “Taiwan”, the CCP lowered its diplomatic relations with Lithuania to charge d’affaires level last month.
On Wednesday (15th), the Lithuanian diplomatic mission to China hurriedly withdrew. A source in the diplomatic community who is familiar with the situation said that their departure was a response to “intimidation.”
However, the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs claimed on Thursday (16th) that concerns about the safety of Lithuanian diplomats in China were unfounded.
The Lithuanian government said on Wednesday that it has recalled its ambassador to China for consultations and the embassy will temporarily operate remotely.
Another source in the diplomatic community told Reuters that a 19-member group of embassy staff and family members left Beijing for Paris on Wednesday.
Lithuanian Foreign Minister Gabrielius Landsbergis told reporters in Vilnius on Thursday that the Chinese authorities have notified Lithuanian diplomats that their ID cards will soon expire.
“The time given to us is very short… We asked for a longer time, just because it is complicated to arrange to return to Congress so soon. Our request was not answered, and then people returned as soon as possible.” Landsbergi Said.
He went on to point out that unilaterally changing the status of a country’s representative violates international treaties.
The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs did not immediately respond to Reuters’ request for comment on Landsbergis’ claims.
Editor in charge: Lin Yan#
.