Former Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen Visits Lithuania, Expected UK Trip Amid China Pressure

Former Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen is undertaking a diplomatic tour of Europe, including Lithuania, Denmark, and Britain, aimed at strengthening bilateral ties and democratic partnerships amid increased pressure from China. In Lithuania, Tsai is engaging in comprehensive dialogue and public discussions to advance Taiwan-Lithuania cooperation, notably following Lithuania's establishment of a Taiwanese representative office that China views as provocative. Tsai's upcoming visit to Britain, at the invitation of British lawmakers, is unofficial but symbolic, intended to deepen friendship despite the lack of formal diplomatic ties and ongoing efforts by China to isolate Taiwan diplomatically. Her trip to the UK includes talks at academic institutions and meetings with British politicians, reflecting growing economic and political exchanges between Taiwan and Britain, which recently signed an Enhanced Trade Partnership and supports Taiwan's defense initiatives such as its indigenous submarine program. While London seeks to balance its China relations, Tsai's visits underscore Taiwan's defiance against Chinese military threats and its pursuit of international recognition and support. Beijing has consistently condemned Tsai's engagements abroad, labeling her a separatist, but Taiwan continues to foster partnerships with democratic countries.