Taiwan opens diplomatic mission in Lithuania

Only 15 countries still recognize Taiwan as an independent state and maintain official diplomatic relations. Two years ago, states like Kiribati and Vanuatu turned their backs on the de facto independently governed island republic and instead established diplomatic relations with the People’s Republic. In Europe, apart from the Vatican, not a single state has recognized Taiwan as a sovereign nation for 18 years. But now, for the first time, Taiwan is once again receiving diplomatic representation in Europe.