A resolution adopted by the European Parliament including articles supporting Taiwan-Lithuania ties is sincerely appreciated by the government and people, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Jan. 21.
Passed 585 to 46 with 41 abstentions the day before, the resolution pertaining to violations of fundamental freedoms in Hong Kong also condemned China’s economic coercion against Lithuania as evidenced by de facto sanctions targeting the Baltic state’s exports.
Such actions and practices violate international and World Trade Organization rules, as well as directly impact the underlying principles of the EU single market, the resolution said. In addition, recent statements of solidarity with Lithuania are welcomed, and the European Commission, Council and member states are urged to cooperate with international partners in safeguarding democracy in Taiwan.
The MOFA said the resolution follows a letter by 41 EP lawmakers sent Jan. 17 to EC presidents and executives expressing a similar stance. Such strong backing is greatly valued, the ministry added.
According to the MOFA, the resolution demonstrates the EP’s timely and necessary support for Lithuania. Taiwan will continue to work with like-minded partners such as the EU and the U.S. based on shared values of freedom, democracy, respect for human rights and rule of law to counter authoritarian expansion. (YCH-E)
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