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Risch, Shaheen Introduce Resolution in Support of Lithuania’s Relationship with Taiwan

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Jim Risch (R-Idaho), ranking member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, and Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), chair of the Subcommittee on Europe and Regional Security Cooperation, introduced a resolution commending the government of Lithuania for increasing ties with Taiwan and supporting its firm stance against coercion by the Chinese Communist Party.

“On July 20, 2021, the government of Lithuania announced the opening of a Taiwan Representative Office in its capital city of Vilnius. Since that courageous decision, Lithuania has faced unacceptable economic retaliation from China,” said Risch. “This resolution sends a message that when our friends stand up to malign Chinese influence, the United States will support them. I applaud the Lithuanian government for refusing to allow its foreign policy to be dictated by outside powers, and I fully support all nations in strengthening relations with Taiwan.”

“China’s efforts to spread its influence across democracies in Eastern Europe are concerning, and the United States stands in solidarity with Lithuania against China’s abuse. Lithuania’s resolve to stand up for human rights and against economic encroachment by China is commendable,” said Shaheen. “I’m proud to lead this bipartisan resolution with Senator Risch to strengthen U.S. support to Lithuania and Taiwan against Chinese economic manipulation.”

This resolution:

  • Commends Lithuania for strengthening ties with Taiwan;
  • Recognizes the bold actions Lithuania has taken to highlight the malign actions of China; and
  • Encourages nations around the world to support Lithuania and confront Chinese coercion.

Full text of the resolution can be found here.

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