Taiwan has sent a delegation to Lithuania to explore the possibility of a partnership in drone technology, which could cause tensions with China.
Here's what we know
Foreign Minister Lin Jia-loong, accompanied by representatives of 20 Taiwanese drone companies, is currently in Vilnius to meet with Lithuanian officials and participate in a forum on unmanned systems.
Taiwanese companies include Aerospace Industrial Development Corp, Thunder Tiger Corp, GEOSAT Aerospace & Technology Inc and Mitac Holdings Corp.
In addition to potential drone technology transfers, the Taiwanese delegation would seek to establish commercial ties with European companies to strengthen Taiwan's position in the global drone supply chain. The delegation is expected to stay in the Baltic state until November 24.
Lithuania, which is a key player in the drone sector, has already supplied thousands of unilateral attack drones to Ukraine to help it defend against the Russian invasion.
It is worth noting that Mr Lin's visit could be strongly disapproved by China, which is pressuring countries with diplomatic relations to avoid engaging with Taiwan.
Communist China considers the Republic of China (i.e. Taiwan) a breakaway province and has not ruled out the use of force to achieve its so-called “reunification” with the mainland.
This trip could also complicate diplomatic relations between Lithuania and China, after the rupture caused by Vilnius' decision to open a Taiwanese mission in the country.
Source: Bloomberg : Bloomberg
