In an exclusive interview with Rti, Taiwan Representative in Lithuania Constance Hsueh-hong Wang (王雪虹) spoke on the recent outrage caused by President Gitanas Nausėda’s suggestion that the name of the Taiwanese Representative Office in Lithuania be changed to stabilize relations with China.
With the Lithuanian presidential elections approaching on Sunday, the country’s relations with Taiwan and China have become a hot topic in the debate among the eight candidates.
Wang said that Lithuania, as a democratic country, respects the opinions expressed by the candidates and pointed out that many voices in Lithuania support Taiwan. As for the name change suggestion, she emphasized that the current name is a consensus reached by the governments of Taiwan and Lithuania through many negotiations. Wang adds that because another series of long discussions will be required to confirm an adjustment, the current name will continue to be used and there is no need for concern at this time.
The Lithuanian government had looked to the Taiwanese market to make up for trade losses with China caused by diplomatic disputes. As a result, the two countries have built substantial economic and trade exchanges and cooperation in semiconductor and laser technologies, language and culture, and other sectors.