D. Žalimas, a Member of the European Parliament, expressed discontent with Prime Minister I. Ruginienė's recent statements regarding Taiwan and its relationship with China, warning that such rhetoric could lead to embarrassment for Lithuania as it prepares to assume the presidency of the European Union next year. He emphasized that Ruginienė's calls to revert to traditional stances may not align with the national interests of Lithuania. Specifically, he referred to her comments on renaming the Taiwanese representation in Vilnius to reflect 'Taipei' as confusing and potentially detrimental to Lithuania's image abroad.

Žalimas's remarks come in the wake of Ruginienė's assertions that Lithuania should prioritize its foreign policy decisions and return to its 'roots.' He questioned which 'roots' she meant, suggesting that her thinking might be influenced by outdated or even communist ideologies. This rhetorical criticism highlights the broader tensions within Lithuanian politics regarding relations with China, as Žalimas advocates for a more principled stance towards Taiwan, which he believes aligns with the values and interests of the EU.

As Lithuania prepares for its leadership role within the EU, internal disagreements over foreign policy could complicate its diplomatic efforts. The ongoing discussions about Taiwan and China illustrate a significant geopolitical shift, where Lithuania has taken a bold stance in support of Taiwan, challenging traditional norms in its relationships with major powers. The implications for Lithuania's credibility and leadership within the EU could be profound if the government does not present a united front on these sensitive international issues.