Lithuania Expels Three Chinese Representatives Over Legal Violations

Lithuania expelled three staff members of China’s representative office on November 29, citing breaches of both international and Lithuanian law. The Lithuanian Foreign Ministry declared the individuals persona non grata, stating that their actions violated the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, which governs diplomatic conduct and immunity.

Although specific details were not disclosed, the Ministry emphasized that the expulsions followed behavior incompatible with international norms and Lithuanian legal principles. The decision also aligns with the 1969 Convention on Special Missions, with Lithuania proposing interim measures to the Chinese government regarding the situation.

The expulsion adds to a history of strained relations between Lithuania and Beijing. Diplomatic ties soured in 2021 when Lithuania allowed Taiwan to open a representative office under its name, prompting China to expel Lithuania’s ambassador and withdraw its own envoy from Vilnius.

Subsequently, Lithuania closed its embassy in Beijing, citing challenges in dialogue with Chinese authorities. Retaliatory measures from China included trade restrictions on Lithuanian exports and sanctions against its officials, further deepening the rift.

Lithuania was also the first country to leave the 17+1 bloc, a cooperation framework between China and Eastern European nations, urging other members to follow suit.

The latest move comes amid rising global concerns about Chinese espionage activities. Cases of alleged espionage linked to Chinese consulates and officials have prompted heightened scrutiny in the United States and other Western countries. This year, a congressional report highlighted a surge in espionage, economic interference, and transnational repression activities tied to Beijing, fueling broader calls for stronger countermeasures.

China’s government has yet to respond to Lithuania’s decision.