LITHUANIA | Why Has It Taken on CHINA?
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Күн бұрынSince 2021, tensions have been growing between the People's Republic of China and the small Baltic state of Lithuania. Driven by a diplomatic spat over the opening of a Taiwanese representative office in Vilnius, the Lithuanian capital, relations have now soured to the point that China has blocked Lithuanian goods and has downgraded diplomatic relations. All this has led to accusations that Beijing is bullying Lithuania. But while the United States and parts of the European Union seem determined to challenge China over the issue, some key EU members, including Germany, seem more cautious. This in turn raises some important questions.
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As concern goes over China's increasing assertiveness on the international stage, its crackdown in Hong Kong, its treatment of the Uyghurs, and its aggressive stance towards Taiwan, Beijin's attempts to force Lithuania to back down over the issue of the Taiwanese Representative Office in Vilnius is increasingly forcing EU members to confront the Union's previous attempts balance relations with Beijing. In this sense, the Lithuania-China dispute is casting interesting light on the foreign policies of all those involved, including the United States.
CHAPTERS
0:00 Introduction and Titles
0:27 Lithuania-China: From Small Incident to Major Issue
1:13 China and the Taiwan Issue
2:34 Lithuania’s Dispute with China
4:52 Lithuania-China Dispute: US vs EU Responses
7:16 The Significance of the Lithuania-China Dispute
10:36 What Next for the Lithuania China Dispute?
RELATED PLAYLISTS
Current Issues and Disputes • CURRENT ISSUES AND DIS...
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• CHINA-TAIWAN DISPUTE
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FURTHER READING & USEFUL SOURCES
Lithuania Ministry of Foreign Affairs urm.lt/en/
People's Republic of China MFA www.fmprc.gov.cn/mfa_eng/
Taiwan MFA en.mofa.gov.tw
European Commission Trade ec.europa.eu/trade/index_en.htm
China’s Bullying of Lithuania Spurs European Unity
carnegieeurope.eu/strategiceu...
What China’s bullying of Lithuania reveals about Europe www.economist.com/europe/2022...
Does China’s dispute with Lithuania signify a shift in its broader relationship with Europe? blogs.lse.ac.uk/cff/2022/01/2...
Chinese Foreign Policy: An Introduction amzn.to/32DUCNo
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The Foreign Policy of Counter-Secession amzn.to/2Qinm5t
My other books amzn.to/2MlP13u
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KEYWORDS
#China #Lithuania #Taiwan
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#Statehood #Independence #European Union #UnitedStates
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@JamesKerLindsay 2 жыл бұрын
This is a video I've been meaning to do for a while. However, the matter really seems to be coming to a head now. So, how do you think this will end? Will Lithuania give in? Or will the EU stand up to Beijing? And will Slovenia complicate matters? And should individual EU members be able to shape policies for all other members without their permission? As ever, thoughts and comments below.
@ILOV3CH33SE 2 жыл бұрын
I highly doubt the EU stands up to China, at least in the way Lithuania has. The EU can't risk losing China as a trading partner unless it wants to risk mass inflation. Countries like Slovenia might be able to get away with that kind of banter, but large players like France or Germany could not afford to do so I don't think.
@IntrusiveThot420 2 жыл бұрын
Your title reminds me of what one of my early english teachers told me: Always Abuse Alliteration 😂
@greyeminence2973 2 жыл бұрын
What comments can we possibly make? You believe in all the propaganda and fake news about Russia and China. What brainwashing did you manage to resist? Was there one thing that made you pause and say "wait, let me spend 2 minutes googling to find out the truth"? Why have a KZfaq channel if you just want to say the same things that 99% of other western KZfaq channels are saying? Which parts of this video, if any, are the result of your own thinking?
@paullin7412 2 жыл бұрын
I think the issue will drag on, and in the process, Slovenia might complicate the issue. The situation might further the division of East (tougher on China and Russia, closer to the US) and West (want to maintain a tie with China and Russia, seek diplomatic independence from the US) within EU. After all, as Russia is a rather direct threat to the Eastern and Central Europe, and an ally to China, this region's countries need more US commitment for protection.
@enduser8410 2 жыл бұрын
@@paullin7412 that's a good point, especially considering the arguably weakening international sway of Western EU states like France (Mali just dropped French as the official language and French-speaking Africa is increasingly protesting them) and UK (Commonwealth is increasingly disengaging). The EU needs to have a stronger posture or else Eastern states might form separate/sub forums like Visegrad Group in the near future which strays from EU policy.
@estoyaqui5386 2 жыл бұрын
This is how political information should be presented: no intro, no outro, straight to the point. Sparse graphics, only the necessary maps and documents. I appreciate your work more and more, sir! And as others mentioned, this topic is barely covered by the "other" media, so thank you for diving into it.
@JamesKerLindsay 2 жыл бұрын
Thank you so much. I really appreciate it. I know that my presentation style isn’t for everyone. Some have said I should do more images and graphics. But I like to think it appeals to a certain viewer. Thanks so much once again for the kind words!
@citizenofterra 2 жыл бұрын
@@JamesKerLindsay I think you have just the right amount of graphics, that it isn't distracting, yet still stimulating. Please don't start using annoying fluff-music as intro and outro - this is perfect! And that you have pictures of articles (as well as linking them in description) is great! Very academic!
@aarnealander9788 2 жыл бұрын
im so surprised you don't have more subscribers, this is honestly some of the best political content I've ever watched, not biased and very factual and informative
@JamesKerLindsay 2 жыл бұрын
Thank you so much. That’s extremely kind of you to say. And certainly really appreciated! :-)
@agnivnandi5538 Жыл бұрын
Yes. This is so neutral!
@piotr_jurkiewicz 2 жыл бұрын
Hands off my baltic brothers! 🇵🇱 🇱🇹
@viktornovomestsky3999 2 жыл бұрын
Sorry, but Lithuania is not alone - as we, the Czech republic, are cooperating with Taiwan since 2018 already, when we have cancelled our sister-city agreement with Beijing and replaced it with Taipei. Since then, we are in the spotlight of China... Our senates president has visited Taiwan in July 2020, together with 83 politicians and businessmen.. The visit has sparked outrage in China, but the US and few other EU members have supported our efforts... Since then, despite criticism and trade boycott of Czech companies operating in China, we have been strengthening our cooperation with Taiwan, and together with our brothers from Slovakia, we are the only 2 countries in the EU who have been visited by Foreign minister of Taiwan in 09/2021... As we had an election the same month, we had chosen a really pro-taiwanese PM, and are now discussing the further steps with Taiwan.. We just have to wait till September this year, as we will elect a new president, as the current one is strongly pro-chinese.. The whole thing is based on our disgust with communists, as we have been part of USSR till the Velvet revolution in 1989...
@travelmentaryTV 2 жыл бұрын
Just for the record, but the Czech Republic has not been a part of USSR. Czechoslovakia was a socialist satellite state under Soviet influence and member of the Warsaw Pact, not part of the Soviet Union. Overall I agree with you though. Generally, Eastern European countries have experienced those socialist control freaks first hand and for this reason seem to be standing up much stronger against any of those socialist policies. And "disgust with communists" really describes it well, you can feel that not only in the Czech Republic, but also in Poland and the Baltic states.
@greyeminence2973 2 жыл бұрын
@@travelmentaryTV Nonsense. The reason Lithuania is suddenly against China is because the US told them to act that way. It has nothing to do with communism. It's like saying that countries are against Russia because of "Russian aggression". No they're not. They're against Russia because their politicians are bribed by the US and the population brainwashed by the US. The proof is in most comments here. China hasn't been communist for decades, and is less communist/socialist than the European Union. And yet I don't see Lithuania or Czechia protesting by leaving the EU or acting against it. So give me a break. Oh and, I'm from one of these former European communist countries, and I neither like communism nor socialism. But China is a meritocracy which is why it's progressing so fast and leaving others in the dust. At the same time the West is falling apart and imploding. And what do westerners conclude? That their system and beliefs are fine, it's China and Russia that are bad. There's just one problem: such level of self-delusion and slander does not change reality. It only speeds the collapse of the West (which Czechia and Lithuania are a part of). Moral collapse. Economic collapse. Military collapse.
@travelmentaryTV 2 жыл бұрын
@@greyeminence2973 I only discuss with people that have manners, I'm afraid. For the sort of discussions that you're probably looking for, I recommend the comment section of Russia Today, where you will find many like-minded people ;)
@greyeminence2973 2 жыл бұрын
@@travelmentaryTV I'm already there, as it's one of the few sane places in the western part of the Internet. I'm only passing through here, as this channel goes on my block list. Exposure to insanity is not beneficial.
@travelmentaryTV 2 жыл бұрын
@@greyeminence2973 Look man, I'm always happy to discuss different views. But if you're starting the debate by stating that I'm of low intelligence, then why discuss at all? Why not just giving your points to the topic instead and let the discussion develop.
@marcusperkins553 2 жыл бұрын
Thank you Professor Ker-Lindsay. I wasn't even aware of the spat between China and Lithuania. Very interesting indeed.
@JamesKerLindsay 2 жыл бұрын
That’s very formal Mr Perkins! 😀 Although seemingly insignificant on the surface, it’s certainly an fascinating situation that’s received very little wider attention. I hope all is well. Looking forward to another impromptu street catch up soon! :-)
@richiesd1 2 жыл бұрын
Nothing here. It’s just normal geopolitical games. Did the USA bully countries to ban Huawei in its geopolitical contest with China?
@idealicfool 2 жыл бұрын
100% Aus wasn't bullied on that score considering what we were dealing with with China anyway lol
@kingstarscream3807 2 жыл бұрын
The Lithuanians are heroes. Their courage is the kind that inspires a person with debilitating depression to get out of bed in the morning. Go, Lithuania, go!
@IntrusiveThot420 2 жыл бұрын
They might even be what the kids call "based".
@Supercow-vb8sc 2 жыл бұрын
Go go go, China just wish Lithuanian to go and then USA have to give more loan to it
@konfunable 2 жыл бұрын
@@Supercow-vb8sc wtf, Lithuania does not need loan. Unlike China which is in serious trouble with extreme privade debt. Basically huge crisis is coming for China and the times of growth have finished.
@clarkl7027 2 жыл бұрын
@@konfunable Interesting point. I've heard Gorden Chang stating this point for 30 years
@rcbrascan 2 жыл бұрын
Didn't Lithuania spread havoc in Eastern Europe killing hundreds of thousands of people in its crusades?
@omgsam2263 2 жыл бұрын
My simple question, since USA strongly support the Lithuania's position, why not USA doing the same, rename the 'Chinese taipei" consulate to' Taiwan' consulate or even go further to recognise Taiwan government in UN? Don't forget, USA was the country shifted his recognition from Republic of China to CCP. End of the day, benefit and money are well above all.
@hsoepangkat2007 2 жыл бұрын
That's the tactics of the US that use other small countries Like Lithuania to test the water. The US knows that it was China's red line which will cause too high a price to pay if they cross that line.
@suckmemore 2 жыл бұрын
China only learning from the "best"! ha.....................................
@deardaddyforever305 2 жыл бұрын
you got such a great point!
@a.s.etaboo8769 2 жыл бұрын
Why don't the Europeans use the same language when America applies Sanctions on countries around the World ;- , Economic Coercion , Bullying, Economic Blackmail, Aggression, Intimidation,
@cometjetter 2 жыл бұрын
How true.
@rinzo2009 2 жыл бұрын
The way that Professor James gives analysis of sensitive topics without having to choose sides, I must say, that's some professional work right there.
@JamesKerLindsay 2 жыл бұрын
Thank you very much indeed! :-)
@mnerijus 2 жыл бұрын
This entire case has element of lost in translation: - that office in Lithuanian language is called “representative place of Taiwanese people”; (word office not used) - in English it’s: Taiwanese representative office; - in Chinese it’s: representative office of Taiwan; So as you can see it really means different thing in each language - emphasises people (not state) in Lithuanian; ambiguous in English; and obviously politically incorrect in Chinese. Easily could be a honest mistake…
@alfaeco15 2 жыл бұрын
Oooops
@kazimierasmickus8097 2 жыл бұрын
indeed. Lithuanian here. It all can be from a translation error. in Lithuanian word, Taivanas is for Taiwan island and people living there is called Taivanieciai, it can be translated both to Taiwan people living in an island and Taiwan people as a country citizens. the same word for both. depends on how you imply.
@alfaeco15 2 жыл бұрын
@@kazimierasmickus8097 Lost in translation indeed
@clarkl7027 2 жыл бұрын
@@kazimierasmickus8097 Why not just change it to Taipei as normal practice in other countries?
@magdalenaos8215 2 жыл бұрын
@@clarkl7027 Because after all this bullying it would be humiliating for Lithuania, and it would give impression that they will do what China say.
@marcocolo7151 2 жыл бұрын
Apart from the topic of the video, which is extremely interesting as usual, i have to say that the quality of the video itself increased dramatically. All the clips and footage make it very enjoyable to watch.
@JamesKerLindsay 2 жыл бұрын
Thank you so much Marco. Yes, I have been trying to add in more clips and visual elements. On that note, do watch the latest video on France in the Sahel. The French Defence Ministry has excellent video archives and so it has lots of footage! :-) The only downside is that it actually makes it a bit tougher to do the more historical videos. Now everyone will be expecting better visuals, a more static approach to older topics might seem jarring. We'll see how that works out soon. I'm planning a more historical video next week. It has been a little while since I did one of my origins of countries series.
@idealicfool 2 жыл бұрын
Aussie here happy to stand in solidarity with the Lithuanian. We have been dealing with Chinese economic sanctions since even before Covid where China will target a major import from here when Aus gov does or says something they disagree with. Thankfully there seems to be bipartisan support for standing up to china here and many people in this country, even the suffering exporters have been made aware of what a bully China is.
@leihtory7423 2 жыл бұрын
Was not Australia first to sanction China? And China responded with Sanctions?
@idealicfool 2 жыл бұрын
@@leihtory7423 there was the shit with Huawei where china blocked aus thermal coal in response for a time, but it was after Morrison called for an independant inquiry into the origin of Covid that China essentially started to economically blackmail aus. Telling their students not to go to Uni here based on stupid reasons that the students themselves were like wtf at, a 120% tarrif on barley, levied litterally just before the farmers were ready to harvest the barley that would be sent to China, soft or unofficial bans on wool, cotton, beef and lobster and a massive levy placed on wine for supposed "dumping" as in flooding the CN market with cheap wine to drive the price down. Even tho those companies exporting to CN are sending their top shelf product which of course have a premium price on them. Higher in fact than most CN wines in their market. They would have done steel to but to bad to sad they have nowhere else to get it from
@grobuonis2773 2 жыл бұрын
I think it's unfair to say that Lithuania didn't consult with its allies. I found this interview from after Lithuania had announced the Taiwanese Representation, but before it was opened. The interviewer asks if Lithuania is going to go through with it or is it backing out. The Foreign Minister answers "we're still in consultations with our partners in the EU, US and Indo-pacific". It won't let me post the link but the video's titled "Lithuanian FM slams Belarusian 'so-called President' Lukashenko for migrant 'trafficking'" and the relevant part is at 10:14.
@JamesKerLindsay 2 жыл бұрын
Thanks so much. That’s really helpful and interesting. The problem was that this was done after the original announcement. By that point it was going to be difficult to back down.
@lokmanmerican6889 2 жыл бұрын
@Grobuonis , the video you referred to is at kzfaq.info/get/bejne/i8B2qJWd0NjXaKc.html (By clicking "share" you should be able to get the link by "copying to clipboard", which is what I did) The relevant point is indeed at 10 mins 14 secs into that video. As has been pointed out though, that probably occured after the announcement of the name of the Taiwan office . Nonetheless, more significant is the simple observation that giving in to coercion is not a diplomatic way to solve disputes between countries. The implication being one's country may be next.
@hsoepangkat2007 2 жыл бұрын
Don't be ridiculous. Lithuania's president claimed that he wasn't properly informed on this Taiwan rep office matter by the Premier and the Foreign Minister. How can it be possible that EU was better informed and consulted than his own Lithuanian President? Of course the Lithuanian President is a slippery old fox that would say anything to cover his ass.
@twood2032 2 жыл бұрын
@@hsoepangkat2007 I think it is also important to note that the current Lithuania Premier and the Foreign Minister was not appointed by the current Lithuania President, I think there is a disconnect between the Lithuania President and some of his government, which may explain why there are different voices. Highly likely that the Lithuania President was miss informed on the issue, where the Foreign Minister down played the issue.
@jukio02 2 жыл бұрын
It's only tiny countries that stand up to China, all the big ones have too much to lose to do it.
@JamesKerLindsay 2 жыл бұрын
Thanks. It is indeed very interesting that Lithuania felt in a position to do this. But I suspect it is only possible because it is part of the EU. I’m not sure many small states would do it otherwise. Then again, it is interesting that the United States has been more active in defending Vilnius than the EU. It raises all sorts of questions about how the EU operates and where the source of its significance really lies.
@yohaneschristianp 2 жыл бұрын
Come on, their economy isn't dependent on trade with China. You can't blame the others.
@Sp3ll633 2 жыл бұрын
Only if all countries act together at the same time. China can't put a ban on everybody in a short time. They cannot stop all their imports at the same time.
@robertlan222 2 жыл бұрын
@@JamesKerLindsay shouldn’t US involvement also raise questions of why they are taking such an interest? Why only question the EU?
@JamesKerLindsay 2 жыл бұрын
@@robertlan222 Thanks. It’s not a conspiracy, I promise. :-) I answered the US part in the video. Washington is openly pushing countries to engage more with Taiwan.
@aarontinsley612 2 жыл бұрын
Absolutely love your content. Very curious where you draw your sources from, or if you have a favorite place to gather them from?
@JamesKerLindsay 2 жыл бұрын
Thanks so much Aaron. Great question! As a start, I try to work off news sources that I know and trust. Reuters, AP and AFP are great for immediate reporting. I then look for more analytical news sources. NYTimes, Economist, Guardian are often very good. I will also look at academic articles for background. Reports from trusted think tanks can also be useful. I will also consult official sources, such as government sites and the UN. And then look to more partisan news sources. I approach scripting in the same way I write books. I layer them. I try to start with the most factual account I can and then add in texture - such as the positions of the parties and my own take on things.
@spektrumB 2 жыл бұрын
I once talked with a South Korean embassy member. She said once a country becomes powerful, inevitably it will behave like a bully.
@greyeminence2973 2 жыл бұрын
Oh really? Maybe you should've studied history instead. Then you'd notice there's a huge difference between China and India, and the West. Do you even know how people become embassy members? It's good you didn't tell us you talked to the president of America and now you're better informed and know the truth. I wish the so called "social credit system" actually existed and people were given negative points publicly displaying their stupidity.
@yohaneschristianp 2 жыл бұрын
@@greyeminence2973 You'll get -1 too then. He has his point you know, look at big companies, let's say Google, how's it before and now? The same goes for country but even worse.
@greyeminence2973 2 жыл бұрын
@@yohaneschristianp That's typical western nonsense about how power is bad and how power corrupts. You don't automatically turn into a bully because you have power. You just have more opportunity. If you think Google was angelic before then you're naive. Compare how much China bullied others past 2 thousand year, to how much America bullied others in just last 200 years. They're nothing alike. Or compare Putin who has a lot of power, to some teen hooligan who likes to provoke others and start brawls. One is a bully and the other is not, and it has no correlation to power.
@tuteratut 2 жыл бұрын
Yes history would suggest that. Perhaps it is early days yet for China but there is very little evidence of that on the international stage, no matter how hard the media tries to paint this issue as a David and Goliath struggle.
@user-in5kc9eu8b 2 жыл бұрын
Her words cannot explain Lithuania's behavior. Because the whole thing is: Lithuania bullies China, China bullies back... Why did Lithuania dare to bully China first? Lithuania is not a powerful country
@exlibrisas 2 жыл бұрын
What lesions can be learned? That world is unfair and you have to back down when a bully says so... Hell no.
@rsiow2 2 жыл бұрын
Why can’t we have more balanced discussions like this shown everywhere? Good stuff 👍🏻
@JamesKerLindsay 2 жыл бұрын
Thanks! :-)
@glenngilbert7389 2 жыл бұрын
Another excellent presentation, providing clarity on this complex issue.
@JamesKerLindsay 2 жыл бұрын
Thank you very much indeed!
@freakyscottdude 2 жыл бұрын
My boss is Lithuanian, and so I asked her recently what she thought of the whole thing. She said it was the "first boss thing we've done in years" 😂
@blacked2987 2 жыл бұрын
*doing something yourself isn't boss thing... you are a real boss if you really can influence world, shake things up...this is nothing to be proud of. Imagine if everybody in higher latitudes worked together with competition, tropics won't have a chance...but no, it's the ego that destroys things*
@yohaneschristianp 2 жыл бұрын
Since Polish Lithuanian Commonwealth, yes. But still far away.
@JamesKerLindsay 2 жыл бұрын
Well, that’s one way of putting it! :-)
@katitobyt 2 жыл бұрын
Thank you, this is a great informative video!
@JamesKerLindsay 2 жыл бұрын
Thanks so much. I’m glad you liked it. It’s a really interesting situation. A seemingly small and marginal issue that says a lot about current international relations.
@katitobyt 2 жыл бұрын
@@JamesKerLindsay Exactly!
@SuperSanic.. 2 жыл бұрын
please make a video on Yemen war. Saudi Arabia and UAE has taken the opportunity of Ukraine crisis and killed over 70 people and injured 100s by random bombing on densely populated areas. Over 377,000 yemenis killed according to UN estimate of 2021. US and Western countries are profiting from the war by selling weapons to Gulf states instead of stopping the war.
@JamesKerLindsay 2 жыл бұрын
Thank you. I did an explainer on the war a while back. I will try to revisit it at some point. It is a horrific and catastrophic situation. kzfaq.info/get/bejne/i8qHitBp2ai5oKc.html
@hugodesrosiers-plaisance3156 2 жыл бұрын
I'm grateful for your work Professor. Cheers.
@JamesKerLindsay 2 жыл бұрын
Thank you so much. Always really appreciated! Have a great week. :-)
@gkudriavtsev 2 жыл бұрын
Professor Ker-Lindsay, thanks for this video! There are two questions which remain unanswered. 1. What is the true goal or potential benefit for Lithuania when it started this activity? It seems to be deliberate and proposeful action, but for what? 2. This issue became another stress test for "EU unity" mostly for EU countries with significant share of China in trade. But what side or sides are beneficiary?
@JamesKerLindsay 2 жыл бұрын
Thanks so much. Great questions. On the first one, I think there seem to be two schools of thought. The first is that this was a new Lithuanian Government, driven by a sense of purpose, deciding that it wanted to take a stance on China. The other is that it was somehow put up to it by the United States. My sense is that it could well be both. Having indicated a wish to take on China, it may then have been encouraged by Washington. Then again, it could all have been a genuine mistake. It may not have realised that using the name it did would cause major upset - and Taiwan perhaps did not tell them. (This may seem implausible, but I have seen small foreign ministries in action. They aren't always a well informed on issues as the major countries - and certainly not like the US, France, Britain, Russia and China.) On the second, I don't think anyone really benefits from this - and maybe this is dawning on them all now. The danger is that pride takes over and no one feels that they can back down. This is seemingly the real problem at this stage.
@soundmind9772 2 жыл бұрын
@@JamesKerLindsay you are absolutely right, which leads to the conclusion that decisions are being made by incompetent leadership. The PRC and other governments that are not completely asleep at the wheel could, and probably should, use this to their advantage.
@Pifagorass 2 жыл бұрын
I think Lithuanian government does not support genocide.
@wli2718 2 жыл бұрын
it appears to me that Lithuania's leader are acting hot headed. as you say, Lithuania clearly started this. they wanted to show China the middle finger.... well.... how exactly do they expect the PRC to react? there is no question that the Beijing-Taipei relations is currently at a low point and matters are incredibly sensitive. the possibility of war is real. against this backdrop, Lithuania jumps out of no where to put up a giant display support for Taiwan independence. as some MEP bluntly calls it "Taiwan is a country". this absolutely forced the hands of PRC. heck.... if the EU parliament pass a motion to recognize Taiwan as a country, war would absolutely happen before the next sunrise. the PRC is sending a warning shot, because they have to, before the actual war breaks out.
@user-py9cy1sy9u 2 жыл бұрын
Lithuanian here. Relationships with democratic countries are more stable and more beneficial over the long term. For this reason the government looked at where in the world Lithuania could strengthen its relationships with other democracies. It found 3 places - Australia, South Korea and Taiwan. Australia and South Korea relationship improvements received 0 media attention making it look like the only thing Lithuania did was starting a fight with China.
@OrbitalAstronaut 2 жыл бұрын
Iron wolf 🐺 🇱🇹
@enduser8410 2 жыл бұрын
Hello Professor Ker-Lindsay, fantastic video as usual. I've already stated my opinion on the China-Lithuania spat in another comment and on another topic, I hope you make a video on Mali officially dropping French as an official language and replacing it with Bambera. What are your thoughts on that and how will that affect France if not by extension possibly Western European influence, especially given the increase in Russian advisors and mercenaries in Francafrique?
@JamesKerLindsay 2 жыл бұрын
Thanks so much. Great suggestion about Mail! I am seriously considering this for next week. I have been working on a script for quite some time about the French presence in the Sahel. But events are quite fluid and I’ve wanted to find a wider angle to it.
@greers7296 2 жыл бұрын
@@JamesKerLindsay Great ideas. Additionally, there are countries in the Maghreb considering switching from French to English as the official secondary language/language for business. This alongside with France's overall presence in North/West Africa would be interesting!
@juniorjames7076 2 жыл бұрын
@@greers7296 Teaching English is about to become big business in Morocco. I have a friend who just opened an English language school. Moroccans and Algerians are fed up with the racist caste system and attitude of French culture and becoming more Anglophone.
@jjc1347 2 жыл бұрын
Well done analysis. Balanced information from both sides. I really like it. Don't rock the boat if everything is going well. I am surprised that a country can insult another and then expect them to work well with you.
@RobBCactive 2 жыл бұрын
Indeed because China is large it thinks it can make these petty points. It won't allow Taiwan to change its name or face the reality of Taiwan's global importance. A great nation isn't threatened by another having trade missions.
@jjc1347 2 жыл бұрын
@@RobBCactive It is more like the state of California wanting to get recognition in the world stage. As powerful as California maybe, the US won't allow it.
@citizenofterra 2 жыл бұрын
Man, I just found your channel and you have a great way of presenting information. Very clear and concise. As a sinologist (soon to graduate) myself, this sort of material is far more intriguing than a lot of 'gimmicky' or colored videos. Thanks!
@JamesKerLindsay 2 жыл бұрын
Thank you so much. I really appreciate it. It isn’t always easy to cover international issues, especially at the moment. And I certainly have my own views. But I do hope that I can present international developments in an informative way that’s perhaps less sensationalistic (and militaristic) than other channels. In any case, a warm welcome! And fascinating to hear about your degree path. About as useful as it gets in this world! :-)
@citizenofterra 2 жыл бұрын
@@JamesKerLindsay Thank you for your sincere reply, James, I appreciate it. It is indeed an exciting degree in these times - and probably always will be as China is not going away any time soon! Everyone has their own opinions and even for the most seasoned professors it can be hard to disguise it. But honestly, it doesn't really show in your videos, to be honest. And as long as it is not pervasive and obscures the message, I think a hint of (qualified) opinion has a time and place. Keep up the work, I enjoyed the Balochistan video as I am writing about the CPEC currently! Would love to see your take on the Xinjiang cotroversies, even though it is a hard topic to cover with a lack of reliable sources...
@Rudyjosephjr 2 жыл бұрын
Bullying? USA just sanctioned Cambodia for trading with China. Is it considered bullying or not? Or Might Makes right?
@maserekasimon9537 2 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the Videos. I love your style of presentation. You're not biased, you're informative, your content is not congested by advertising. Your video time is also the best. A video bellow 15Minutes is good enough
@JamesKerLindsay 2 жыл бұрын
Thank you so much. It’s always really nice to hear such positive comments. I appreciate it enormously. Have a great rest of the weekend!
@maserekasimon9537 2 жыл бұрын
Some channels make up to 2hour documentaries on topics you summarize in 12minutes
@AbdulHannanAbdulMatheen 2 жыл бұрын
👏🙂 Kudos to Lithuania and Slovenia. I think the CCP behavior of bullying is forcing the the democratic nations to make a choice of if they stand in Solidarity with the smaller democratic nations or not. I hope there is more support to Lithuania and actual punishment to the CCP for their wolf warrior diplomacy, though I'm no diplomat. I wonder how things will progress from here. Keep up the great work professor.
@hsoepangkat2007 2 жыл бұрын
It's not bullying. It was the tactic the Chinese learnt from Donald Trump. Sanction any country as you feel appropriate. Don't care about what those sanctioned parties' feeling. They must be punished to know US power, here it is Chinese power.
@walrus6173 2 жыл бұрын
@@hsoepangkat2007 so... bullying
@rcbrascan 2 жыл бұрын
In the last week of January, Slovenia walked back on its position on Taiwan and now supports the one China policy. German and French manufacturing corporations has threaten to remove Lithuania from their supply chain which will result in massive economic dislocation for Lithuanian companies. Also Lithuania will no longer get investments from other EU and non-EU countries due to the risk of being denied access to the China market.
@hsoepangkat2007 2 жыл бұрын
@@rcbrascan Correct. Slovenian Premier is a very controversial political figure and tries hard to gain some political mileage by making venturous statements. His Taiwan statement was shot down by the President of Slovenia claiming it was not the state policy to do so.
@Jgheiler 2 жыл бұрын
What do you use for audio? Sounds great!
@JamesKerLindsay 2 жыл бұрын
Thanks so much! It took me ages to get it how I wanted. :-) I use a Rode Videomic NTG. I then do some cleaning up with a limiter, equalise with a little extra bass, and reduce the reverb. I’ve recently started using Izotope software for some extra elements, such a declick. (Overall, I edit my videos and sound in Final Cut Pro.)
@tez6693 2 жыл бұрын
You make great reports on current events and they are both measured and factual. God bless!
@JamesKerLindsay 2 жыл бұрын
Thank you so much for such an incredibly kind comment. I really appreciate it! Very warmest regards from my end.
@SiRasputin 2 жыл бұрын
Cmon prof, you know the pressure being ramped up on China concerning TW HK and XJ is due to China rising and being on the cusp of overtaking the US economically. The basis for supporting independence in HK and TW have no basis in international law as you well know. TW is not a UN member. When Nixon turned his back on the ROC, it basically meant that the PRC would settle the TW issue in their favour one way or another. Further, unlike the UKR issue, there would be absolutely overwhelming support for the PRC in the UN even if force was used. In terms of Lithuania, big states use there power. Remember, no state uses unilateral economic sanctions more often and more vindictively than the US. They're rarely portrayed as bullies tho...
@motowntaiwan9079 2 жыл бұрын
Your comment is so true and spot on.
@pleiadesstarr453 2 жыл бұрын
He probably already knew that.
@rogerdarthwell5393 2 жыл бұрын
Finally been round to watch this new video, this spat has been in the news a lot lately, I hope you are having a great weekend!
@JamesKerLindsay 2 жыл бұрын
Thanks Roger. It’s an interesting issue. More to it than appears on the surface. Have a great weekend too! :-)
@rogerdarthwell5393 2 жыл бұрын
@@JamesKerLindsay Thank you so much!
@fahadazmi3998 2 жыл бұрын
great as usual...thanks for your great effort of spreading knowledge respect ,,,love you
@JamesKerLindsay 2 жыл бұрын
Thank you so much! :-)
@fahadazmi3998 2 жыл бұрын
@@JamesKerLindsay ❤❤❤
@ninjaturtlesfan6049 2 жыл бұрын
I'm Lithuanian
@cheapgames4373 2 жыл бұрын
I am a lithuanian and i support taiwan
@idealicfool 2 жыл бұрын
I am Australian and I support you both
@commie5211 Жыл бұрын
No problem, we have consider lithuania part of Russia already.
@aryalajevardi3790 2 жыл бұрын
Professor, do you have online classes or lectures that we could possibly join and learn from? Difficult to find unbiased facts nowadays :)
@JamesKerLindsay 2 жыл бұрын
Thanks so much Arya. I don’t have anything at the moment. But I am considering some ideas.
@watcher8582 2 жыл бұрын
Any more on the Lithuanians and what motivates them differently than other countries, apart from not as high trade relations with mainland China?
@grobuonis2773 2 жыл бұрын
Well, we did vote in a government that specifically promised to fight for freedom all around the world, not just in Belarus (as the previous government had been supposedly hypocritically doing). But of course - predictably - once the pain started to really pile on and some investors departed for greener pastures, the government's popularity and the people's appetite for conflict collapsed. I'm still on board though, there are greater things to life than a -0,5% GDP hit. In terms of the motivation, it's the belief of having superior moral clarity based on having survived a communist occupation for 50 years.
@wyqtor 2 жыл бұрын
I think the 1991 events, when the Russian Soviet regime sent forces to crush the independence movement in Lithuania and people died, are still fresh in people's memories. And they see P.R.China a similarly totalitarian regime that wants to impose its will on Taiwan.
@dennischai4831 2 жыл бұрын
Sack those guys in the government who started it all. Let them stay at home and reflect on their actions.
@bowlampar Жыл бұрын
Want to have it both ways with a 'mad dog' is a tedious task, it's going to be some rough sailing for EU and hard decision making along the way.
@williamdavis9562 2 жыл бұрын
Another fantastic video. I am a simple man. James puts out a video, I click on said video.
@JamesKerLindsay 2 жыл бұрын
Thank you very much indeed! Always really nice to hear. :-) Have a great week.
@williamdavis9562 2 жыл бұрын
@@JamesKerLindsay I've been hooked on your videos ever since the one you did in Nagorno Karabakh. Such a breathe of fresh air compared to all the fake news outlets.
@ukilectric 2 жыл бұрын
It's so interesting how a small country like Lithuania can provoke such a giant, and the whole thing appears to be big guys sort of testing waters.
@hsoepangkat2007 2 жыл бұрын
That's easy to understand. The US told Lithuania to do it. And they did.
@NONcomD 2 жыл бұрын
@@hsoepangkat2007 no, they didnt. Our government had it in their policy before elections to.strenghten relations to Taiwan. Well we just didnt knew the name of the office, but the name was selected by Taiwan and we went with it. USA was not involved, we have made the decision ourselves. We were even lost at some point will we get support at all.
@mdza 2 жыл бұрын
@@NONcomD but why poke a trade giant with a drop in the ocean? What was Lithuania thinking
@joaoruideoliveira4055 Жыл бұрын
Although I agree with much of what has driven Lithuania to assume it posture in relation to China, what seems to be absent from their thinking is a realization that they stand to loose much more than they stand to gain from a spat with China. The government seems to forget that they have a primary responsibility to act in the interests of their people, and those interests are not well served when as a consequence of government action the economy is potentially imperiled. It’s all good and well to act on principle for as long as only you carry the negative consequences of your actions, but when you are acting in The interests of those who’ve put you in power then your action call for diplomacy. The same might be says for the EU in its response to Russia, who as a consequence of their actions have placed the every day life of their citizens in a far worse position than it ought.
@jeannetempest9127 Жыл бұрын
A decision made by a few politicians without knowing of forreign affairs comitee, parlament and president knowing. Basically it skipped steps and procedures and of course it was made in all Lithuania name and too proud politician refuses to see his mistake so thats why its not like a government lacked a foresight, everything was decided without their knowing and approval.
@martso9288 Жыл бұрын
@@jeannetempest9127 Not to mention the former MFA, who made this virtue-signalling for the west, is a grandson of one prominant political actor, who has helped regain the independence, so maybe its a bit reach-y, but going for glory w/o knowing proper courtsey was just daft.
@l.st.6445 Жыл бұрын
That is of course problem for your country I suppose, that is why you are link to support terroristic imperialism in order to have everything you need. Lithuania doesn`t have too big economical communications with China, and thought have not much too lose. However, as for me, I prefer to buy e.g. Germany made products in Germany rather then names written on famous companies in a mean time realistically made in China. Also, Lithuania stands for freedom of any size of the countries as they very well know what is like to live under a power of imperial schizophrenian, also Lithuania will always stand for real democracy of this world. Deal with that Putin`s supporter. make a peace with it!
@enverbey4229 2 жыл бұрын
Mr.professor Do you think why turkey is scaring to give reactions about prohibitions made in china against uygur turks? Even though turkey and uyghur turks are sharing same religion and same race.
@JamesKerLindsay 2 жыл бұрын
Thanks. Very good question indeed! I think most countries have to handle their relations with China very carefully. Turkey is no different. I’d love to do something on Turkey-China relations, alongside videos on Turkey-Russia and Turkey-Israel. Turkey is such a fascinating country, with such interesting and complex foreign relations.
@jackholler3572 2 жыл бұрын
@@jack99889988 So you mean greeks and armenians Turkish ?
@same9733 2 жыл бұрын
Turkey is made up of The Greeks. Uighurs are made up of "Huihu" and "Mongolia"，“han”.etc. "Huihu" and the Turkic people are sworn enemies.
@same9733 2 жыл бұрын
The Turkic population was small, and they survived by collecting slaves. Uyghur were conquered and enslaved by them throughout history. After that, the Turks were defeated, scattered, and ceased to exist.
@same9733 2 жыл бұрын
Some misunderstandings are caused by writing, which records only pronunciation, so history is often illusory.
@eyyh2291 2 жыл бұрын
In UN, Taiwan is a province of China awaiting return. There is consequence for any country attempting to play politics to destable or compromise sovereignty of China.
@michaeldelisieux 2 жыл бұрын
Appeasement is always followed by the actions that would be taken a priori! A waste of time and effort, most of the time , in detriment of fundamental rights! Europe doesn't learn her lessons... Reminds me of 1938-39.
@unluckyforsenbajs7503 2 жыл бұрын
I am a minority from China and your work is wonderful! I think the way out is to rename the office representatives of Chinese Taiwan would be the best choice since nor ROC or taiwan is the choice.
@JamesKerLindsay 2 жыл бұрын
Thank you very much indeed! That’s a really interesting and good suggestion. It is ambiguous enough to allow both sides sons room for manoeuvre - if they want it. But I do wonder if a lot of this was a genuine mistake. Lithuania didn’t realise what it was doing, but then Beijing overreacted and Vilnius decided to stand its ground. It will be really interesting to see how it plays out.
@clarkl7027 2 жыл бұрын
@@JamesKerLindsay Lithuanian foreign minister do know what he's doing. He deliberately provoked China by quitting the name "Taipei" which has been normal practice.
@hmliaw 2 жыл бұрын
All the solutions offered seem to be at the expense of Taiwan. Funny how everyone's so ready to do just that without asking the Taiwanese.
@clarkl7027 2 жыл бұрын
@@hmliaw Taiwan is an island of Republic of China, Taiwan is not a country. you never see representative office of Honshu，representative office of Hawaii in other countries. Likewise, representative office of Taiwan is just weird and ridiculous.
@unluckyforsenbajs7503 2 жыл бұрын
@@JamesKerLindsay I think Beijing is not overreacting since you know they will be angry when you put the name taiwan on front. It is just predictable. Despite all those issues Taiwan is the main issue when it comes to china's core interests.Supporting Taiwan independence is the last straw even in the eyes of many Chinese ppl.
@GeographyWorld 2 жыл бұрын
Interesting video. Would love to see you cover the current dispute between Russia and the Irish fishing industry due to planned weapons tests in the Irish EEZ off the coast of West Cork.
@JamesKerLindsay 2 жыл бұрын
Thanks GW. Yes, I spotted some reporting on that. I must look into it. Irish NATO membership!? 😉
@GeographyWorld 2 жыл бұрын
@@JamesKerLindsay Ireland feels quite neutral on that issue!
@belisarius2776 Жыл бұрын
My respect to Lithuania for standing by thier principles
@Bleach1443 2 жыл бұрын
Aw always amazing video Prof James. I think it’s such a tricky balance for the EU between supporting fellow member states but also protecting its own national interest. One of the challenges the EU has in general. It functions in many ways like a single nation but in reality is still many different ones with their own foreign policy’s.
@JamesKerLindsay 2 жыл бұрын
Thank you so much Nicholas. I had wanted to look at this dispute for a while precisely because it brings up so many interesting issues. The question of EU foreign policy decision making is vital. How does the Union balance the right of members to retain their own policies, with the need to ensure that serious disputes like this, which can seriously harm certain other members, don’t arise. It is a huge debate for the EU.
@hsoepangkat2007 2 жыл бұрын
The EU is now a big mess as all the member countries have the same right to veto a major decision. A veto from Lithuania will kill a major common proposal.
@amossutandi 2 жыл бұрын
how do you define bullying?
@ChenXin01 2 жыл бұрын
Hi Professor Ker-Lindsay, In summary, I would say or ask why is there much nuance when few or none of their representatives are looking at the practical (financial/economic) side of things when most of it is on silly social nuances (e.g. ESG)? I support Lithuania's and other EU's claims on what China has done, but this is not going to achieve anything for the EU other than giving more leverage to China in bolstering their influence through money.
@alexlazar4738 2 жыл бұрын
If you want to prove to the world that you are a banana republic all you have to do is to have some kind diplomatic relationship with Taiwan.
@christineyoung8345 2 жыл бұрын
The China and Taiwan relation is that of unfinished civil war. For a country in state of war, China's action is rather temperate. Though extremely regrettable military aggression during a civil war is not excessive, not any more than the Union forces during the American Civil War. Furthermore, there is nothing inappropriate with not having diplomatic or trade relations with countries that support your enemy.
@magdalenaos8215 2 жыл бұрын
Is there also nothing inappropriate with blackmailing companies that produce in Lithuania, so they won't manufacture there? How appropriate it would be to loosen ties with the country that bully your ally? Would that be the right response? To be honest, I don't think EU could afford it right now, but it (EU) should surly start to prepare some plan "B", even if it hurts it "green" goals.
@bellybutton6138 11 ай бұрын
@@magdalenaos8215 China has been very very clear right from the start that Taiwan is part of China and is recognised in the UN. Noone is stopping Lithuania from making friends but when you take the step to recognise Taiwan as a separate state, China will react (yes, pretty thin skin). Perhaps, some day, China should also encourage some independence states in Europe and let us see what happens.
@magdalenaos8215 11 ай бұрын
@@bellybutton6138 They already did by supporting Russia and, by extend, the new "states" Donetsk and Luhansk.
@enduser8410 2 жыл бұрын
What bothers me about the whole ordeal is the appalling language China used to express its displeasure with Lithuania. Instead of being diplomatic, their official state media described the country as, among other things: trivial, impertinent, small, tiny, pawns, to being a mice or flea country to be crushed by a fighting elephant or swatted like a fly. Some economists have described the revocation of trade licenses and Chinese state pressure on EU companies to cut Lithuania out of their supply lines as equivalent to an embargo which I hope the WTO suit addresses. Mind you, a 'Taiwan Representative Office' is in no way diplomatic recognition of the ROC nor breaking from the One China Policy, and is hardly different from Taiwan offices in other countries. Here in Southeast Asia we have Representative Offices with either Taiwan or ROC in the name along with KMT symbolism and the PRC has never protested these to such an extent. It leads me to think that either the PRC is overreacting or they are using Lithuania to measure their soft power in the EU, coupled with somewhat of a possible racial angle as they've never lashed out at Southeast Asian or Pacific nations for arguably more egregious behavior in the form of switching recognition between the ROC and PRC, to opening multiple Taiwan offices and even opening pseudo embassies in Taiwan. I only hope the EU strengthens its resolve as this comes immediately after the split over Ukrainian military aid. Chasing economic growth via China should not be the only goal if it erodes your principles.
@greyeminence2973 2 жыл бұрын
Do you know what happens when a fly persistently attacks a human? It usually gets swatted. That's not "appalling language". It's reality. Something that the West abandoned. Lithuania decided to be a fly. It decided to act as American puppet in a coordinated attack on China. And your expectation is that China praises Lithuania for being insolent? Wake up woman. Lithuania deserves to be crushed. Not for being small. If you're small you can be a bee or a ladybug. Lithuania decided to be a pest. And now it's China's fault to use proper words. Do you need a safe space?
@matttheyak 2 жыл бұрын
@@greyeminence2973 20 social credit points have been deposited into your account comrade
@karLcx 2 жыл бұрын
@@greyeminence2973 thank you for demonstrating how Chinese diplomacy is seen as childish and something to be resisted so nicely. Most countries put adults in charge. No need to bother if your intentions aren’t friendly or genuine.
@JR-vc4gm 2 жыл бұрын
@@karLcx not being realistic is childish. What has anything to do with Lituania how communists treat Chinese? Do your business and care for your own people, instead it has to stick in the Chinese internal affairs.
@JR-vc4gm 2 жыл бұрын
"Taiwan representative office is not an official recognition" Man, are that naive or you really like to play with words? If it doesn't matter than why not just name it Taipei instead of Taiwan? We are not kids anymore, let's be real.
@logic_420 2 жыл бұрын
It a interesting problem. I personally think everyone will just agree on changing the office name.
@dmorw9601 2 жыл бұрын
Lithuania, biting off more than it can chew. A very unnecessary political development that may very well threaten relations between the Baltic state and some of its European partners. That is the risk the EU will always face because of the independence of nation states in pursuing their own foreign policies.
@JamesKerLindsay 2 жыл бұрын
Thanks so much. Yes, this is a really important point. This has the power to really weaken the EU. And yet pulling fire of policy together also means that the sovereignty of individual members will be diminished and it will almost detain to hand more control to the key larger members. Even though it seems small and rather insignificant, this is such an interesting case.
@jackholler3572 2 жыл бұрын
Lithuania also challenges with Turkey. Like seriously...
@andrewlim9345 2 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the video. As a former captive nation of the USSR, Lithuanians can identify with the Taiwanese given their adverse experience with Communism. Beijing regards Taiwan as a breakaway province given that Taipei and Beijing claimed to be the legitimate Chinese government during the Cold War. China would cite the centuries long Chinese presence in Taiwan to support it's territorial claims.
@FOLIPE 2 жыл бұрын
Funny they identify with the Taiwanese population but not with the Russians in Ukraine, since the Taiwanese are Chinese exilees while Russians are native to East Ukraine.
@gediminaskucinskas6952 2 жыл бұрын
@@FOLIPE Well Big prtions of Russians in Ukraine were moved in by forcible deporting tatars descendants that lived there and other people by either tzar or Stalin etc. And Lithuanians suffered same deportations as well so they hold no love for Russians that moved in by deporting locals.
@chengavitch10 2 жыл бұрын
Professor, you don’t seem to appreciate that splitting Taiwan off China is not seen as a minor diplomatic spat, just like UK can’t tolerate North Ireland becoming independent or reunited with Ireland.
@JamesKerLindsay 2 жыл бұрын
Thanks. But the comparison with the U.K. is actually inaccurate. The U.K. has accepted Irish unification. Unification was the very basis of the Good Friday Agreement. When the majority of the population in Northern Ireland want to unite with Ireland it will happen. Moreover, the overwhelming majority of the British population have no attachment to Northern Ireland.
@SiRasputin 2 жыл бұрын
@@JamesKerLindsay you're right about TW not being comparable to Northern Ireland as the whole world accepts TW as part of China, whether they recognise Beijing or Taipei. This is not the case with Northern Ireland and the UK should let Ireland reunite immediately. China is fortunate that it is a big country. Smaller countries have no power or leverage to stand up to the West concerning thw assertion of their territoral integrity. Ireland, Argentina immediately come to mind. The Good Friday agreements deferring the return of Northern Ireland are farcical. If Ireland were stronger, theres no way they would agree to wait for reunification. In the case of Taiwan, its a clear cut case, which the western media are muddying by referring to TW as independent
@user-hs9xf2me4w 2 жыл бұрын
@@JamesKerLindsay Why are you so hypocritical? You are dismembering and dividing our country! You always think that the world needs to be consistent with your ideas and social systems, you always think that you are right and that you are the power to lead the world. You plundered the world's wealth through colonialism, accumulated capital and technology, built technical barriers. Later, you began to talk about human rights and the rule of law, you began to hypocritically point to the countries and people you robbed.
@kastrioti1975 2 жыл бұрын
Mr. James, I think that, like you said in the video, it is clear that occidental countries have to quickly stop depanding of china's industry. Occidental countries have to bring back their entreprises in their own country. What ever country it is, if your market economy depands too much from it, it can brings you to a very instable position in the event of a dispute.
@StewieG46 2 жыл бұрын
Lithuania is doing the right thing, i dont think they should have consulted other eu member states for that. The lower dependence on China is perhaps why they are the best place to start this in Europe.
@yeanurrahman2104 2 жыл бұрын
Great analyser like Lindsay is why youtube is so fascinating and amazing. The mainstream media propagates either distorted or tailored bites suitable to their agenda, thereby hardly giving us the supposedly objective and unbiased sort of views on issues we care to take knowledge of. The army of Private analysers have been a boon for us! Thank you so much for your presentation! 9.8/10 recommended...
@JamesKerLindsay 2 жыл бұрын
Thank you so much! Always lovely to get a vote of confidence like that. I’m so glad you find the videos interesting and useful.
@wilfredtankhoonpheow2605 2 жыл бұрын
I just want to know is it an offence for not buying your products?
@ottomanosman2463 2 жыл бұрын
As a Turk, I must respect the Lithuanians for standing against Communist China. Wish we can remove the autocrat of our homeland though.
@husniwijaya8807 2 жыл бұрын
To judge communist Good and bad is based on Chinese themself. not related in here.
@augustaj3952 Жыл бұрын
Ty. Please ask Mr. Jerry Hendrix to return, and expand on the the topics on the Baltic Sea and Arctic area
@johnfrancisco1851 2 жыл бұрын
boycott the china winter games
@KGDHMF 2 жыл бұрын
Well put! I have a huge Taiwan bias.
@luishernandezblonde 2 жыл бұрын
China's map we all see today is basically the result of Chinese imperialism and expansionism. Many of these lands, including the likes of Taiwanese Aborigines, Mongols, Uyghurs, Koreans, Kazakhs, Vietnamese, Nepalese and Tibetans, were originally not Chinese - it was annexed and often violently subdued by various Chinese Empires in the history. Nations in Southeast Asia, South Asia and Central Asia also frequently experienced Chinese invasions, the most being Vietnam, Korea and Central Asia. This is why the Lithuanians are aware about Beijing's coercive and militarist approach, and are reminding us that China is a threat. Not to imagine many Chinese companies operate in Eastern Europe also provide spaces for Russian espionage, and China has helped Russia to bypass sanctions and modernise the economy and military. We Eastern and Central Europeans are willing to stand behind Lithuania, even if the Germans, Americans and French care or not. We will defend our values. 🇵🇱🇱🇹🇺🇦🇱🇻🇭🇺🇪🇪🇨🇿🇸🇰🇭🇷🇧🇬🇨🇾🇲🇩🇦🇱🇬🇷🇷🇴🇲🇰🇬🇪🇸🇮🇽🇰🇲🇪🇹🇼
@jakedee4117 2 жыл бұрын
Every country on the map is a result of tribal expansion, the bigger tribes got called Empires.
@luishernandezblonde 2 жыл бұрын
@@jakedee4117 Every nation has its own expansionism. We included. But the problem for China's ego is their refusal to acknowledge their wrongdoings. At least we see our mistakes.
@jakedee4117 2 жыл бұрын
@@luishernandezblonde That looks like moral posturing. You get to judge how other people should live when you also bear the consequences of those decisions. There was no need for Lithuania to get involved in The PRC - ROC dispute. Unless they were trying to earn points with Washington.
@SuperSanic.. 2 жыл бұрын
@@luishernandezblonde bro do you even know how much land taiwan claims? they claim entire mongolia, tajikstan pasrts of north korea, kazaqstan, kashmir, NE part of india.
@greyeminence2973 2 жыл бұрын
What a bunch of lies. Mongols invaded China, not the opposite. China build the Great Wall to have peace, without constant raiding from the north. Uyghurs weren't in Xinjiang to begin with, they invaded the region. And do you think the region was always Islamic? Guess who exterminated Buddhism. Korea and China had good relations throughout history. What Chinese imperialism are you talking about? China defended Korea against Japanese invasions. Kazakhs and Nepalese - what on earth are you talking about? The fact that Nepalese, a country with Hindu culture, has better relations with China than with India tells you everything. China didn't conquer Tibet - the Mongols did. Then the Mongols founded Yuan dynasty and Tibet remained a part of China ever since. And if you think before Tibet was a part of China that Tibet was some kind of a peaceful country, you know nothing about history. Vietnamese - the Chinese helped them greatly in their wars against the French and the Americans. That Vietnam later proved ungrateful and wanted hegemony over SE Asia is not China's fault. In short, you know nothing, but are very motivated at portraying China as bad, because you serve your American masters. Compared to other powerful countries throughout history, China has possibly been the most peaceful one. And certainly much much much more peaceful than powerful European countries. America is in a war almost every year of its entire existence, and is the number one terrorist organization and supporter of terrorism - in the entire history. But China is bad. China is bully. China is expansionist. I have to give credit to the Americans - they are able to brainwash people that the sky is green and grass blue.
@RobBCactive 2 жыл бұрын
This appears to open issues of international law being established for the nation state, in a world where trading blocs matter and where regional issues like status of N.Ireland, Kurds, Catalonia, Scotland and Ukraine can result in tragedy when countries fail to compromise and find peaceful solutions. The EU might take advantage of autonomy of members by small states testing the waters, but the China problem adds an argument for decision making as a unified federation. There appears now to be a loose unholy alliance of autocratic states, testing the alliance of economically dominant powers that share liberal democracy and an interest in the rules based International order.
@FredoRockwell 2 жыл бұрын
Wow - what a really informative video! I had totally missed this spat, and really appreciate the thorough explanation of all sides of the issue. It seems crazy that such a small thing as the official name of a delegation could set off such a huge row between global heavyweights, but now that I think about it, I guess it was inevitable. Governments have been engaging in relations with both the ROC and PRC for decades despite their contradictory claims to sovereignty, and the PRC has become increasingly thin-skinned on the issue. Maybe this is like the assassination of Archduke Ferdinand - a relatively small-seeming international incident which sparks a much, much wider issue? Hopefully without the armed conflict, of course!
@TheLocalLt 2 жыл бұрын
Great video, there are so many sides to this. It’s laudable from a Euro-American Classicalist perspective for Lithuania to have stood it’s ground against the CCP, hopefully inspiring others in the EU to do the same. At the same time it’s unrealistic that Germany would be happy with this, as their newly elected government is overall mixed on CCP policy but the power players are all people extensively involved in German trade with Beijing, so I would not expect them to be pleased. However the EU as a whole has seemingly broken with Germany on this issue ever since the CCP sanctioned MEPs. So there are two sides of the coin even within just the EU. Then you have America, which confusingly has also taken the step to rename the Taipei consulate to Taiwan, despite the fact that America (and Lithuania too) remains officially in the position of recognizing the CCP regime as legitimate while also lending support to what is acknowledged to be a rival Chinese regime in Taipei. Because of that, I think America believes the actual issue originally at stake here, the embassy name, is overly minor, but at the same time Washington cannot back down from support of Lithuania at this point. Washington understands that a “one China policy” and rejection of Taiwan independence (although this is somewhat contrasted by America also renaming the Taipei consulate to Taiwan) does not mean capitulation to the CCP’s position of claiming Taiwan is a part of Communist China, it simply means acknowledging that the regime in Taipei is a rival Chinese regime. In fact I am personally of the opinion that calling for Taiwan independence only strengthens the CCP’s grip over the mainland by resigning to the fact that the Communist regime will never fall - this is in my opinion a gravely naïve and shortsighted assumption, especially in light of someone who has done so much business with the CCP in Jamie Dimon himself predicting the Party’s fall within the next several decades. You did a great job of illustrating just how many sides there are to this dispute, thanks as always for the video!
@geoffreywilliams7705 2 жыл бұрын
Don't have to look far for big nation bullys. Just look across the Atlantic . .
@andrewjones4773 2 жыл бұрын
🇬🇧 British office Taipei. Is the name the British use in Taiwan. In London Taipei representative office in the UK.
@JamesKerLindsay 2 жыл бұрын
Thanks. Yes, indeed. Lithuania is using a name that other countries don’t use.
@regolith1350 2 жыл бұрын
I have just one quibble in an otherwise excellent video: You describe the prime minister of Slovenia as a "right wing populist". I don't know anything about Slovenian politics, so I'm not disputing the accuracy of the label but rather of the use of the label itself. Him being a right wing populist didn't seem to have any bearing whatsoever on the story, and no one else was similarly labeled with his/her position on a political spectrum, so this characterization felt weird. It's something I've noticed a lot in media: so called "right-wing" or "populist" figures are always labeled in news stories while other politicians are not.
@scrumpy8192 2 жыл бұрын
Kinda sounds like Lithuania can stop being bullied whenever it wants tbh.
@ninjaturtlesfan6049 2 жыл бұрын
Lithuania❤Taiwan
@Alvaro_Litti Жыл бұрын
Tegyvuoja Lietuva!! 🙌
@londondaily 2 жыл бұрын
I really appreciate your work and presentation. The only thing is your speech cadence is very repetitive and, for me, it gets hard to listen to over a longer time.
@JamesKerLindsay 2 жыл бұрын
OK. Sorry about that. If you watch my Q&A videos, you’ll see my normal way of speaking - the way my student know and love! :-) The trouble is that these videos have to be precisely scripted as even tiny mistakes become a target for untold comments and even abuse. This requires using a teleprompter, which requires a very different way of speaking. I don’t actually like it nearly as much, but I have to do it. Anyway, I hope you understand.
@MrPicanto 2 жыл бұрын
It was just another inner affair of the Chinese people.
@dahakaguardianofthetimelin4780 2 жыл бұрын
From how things are looking, it's most likely that the issue will be "solved" by a change in Lithuanian government that'll cave in to all of the Chinese demands. The current government, while morally on the right path and advocating all the right policies, is incredibly unpopular and is all too likely to flop on its face in the resurgence of its political opponents. There are brewing political movements in Lithuania that crave good relations with Lukashenko's Belarus and the Kremlin and, despite being harshly critical toward China and its policies during the early period of the pandemic, that have since went a full-180 on that position merely because the current government seems insistent on feuding with China. Seeing Lithuania's most influential political parties that show any speck of a promise to win the future election, there simply aren't any that would hunker down and hold on to the position of the current government. A really informative video full of interesting takes.
@wli2718 2 жыл бұрын
for a country like Lithuania, the best course of action is to balance, not picking sides. India is a great example. they buy military equipment from both Russia and USA. making it clear that they are open to work with either side but will not become the puppet of either. the country benefit greatly from this. likewise, had Ukraine did this and stayed neutral, they would not be in the mess they are in.
@dahakaguardianofthetimelin4780 2 жыл бұрын
@@wli2718 You can't really do "balance" with Russia or China being one of the sides. That's sort of the problem, isn't it? Any leeway given to anyone other than Russia or China is seen as a direct threat to their integrity. Just Lithuania working to free themselves from economical dependency from Russia is seen as an act of aggression. That's the aggravating part of dealing with countries like China or Russia - it's their way or the highway, and they're powerful and influential enough to bully around pretty much any nation in existence. Especially USA who neither wants an economic scuffle with China, because China holds the vast sum of their national debt over them, nor Russia, as nuclear war threatens not just any single country but the integrity of civilization as we know it and Russia's all too keen to keep pushing that line because it knows it won't get as much as a slap on the wrist for it. That's because the only powers able to slap it in a significant way are afraid to disrupt the balance that keeps the boiling pot from tipping over. "Balance" doesn't really work when one of the sides you're trying to balance demands absolute obedience and submission in all matters and sees balance itself as a grievous offense.
@wli2718 2 жыл бұрын
@@dahakaguardianofthetimelin4780 plenty of countries know how to balance. India does it, Singapore does it. Vietnam does it. most of Africa does it. the Swiss is famous at doing this. in fact, majority of the world's countries are part of the non-align movement. its not that hard. countries like Vietnam and China publicly release their foreign policy papers - and since they are not subject to democratic elections - their gov't do in fact follow thru with those policies. its not a mystery - just the Western MSM is full of spinning lies.
@dahakaguardianofthetimelin4780 2 жыл бұрын
@@wli2718 Yes, that diabolical west and their "spinning lies", as opposed to China and Russia, the beacon of honesty, limpidity and respect for human rights... XD
@wli2718 2 жыл бұрын
@@dahakaguardianofthetimelin4780 Saddam had WMD - lies Ghaddafi had viagra rape squad - lies Vietname fired at US warships - lies each of these lies were used to justify acts of war by the West.
@rcbrascan 2 жыл бұрын
It seems that the name change will eventually happen as powerful Lithuanian corporations are demanding the government to restore relations with China and this can happen in the next election with a new government. The EU will support Lithuania publicly but behind the scenes it will work against Lithuania's position when the WTO adjudicates the complaint as its own China interests supersedes Lithuania's. Since the case in WTO will take years, any judgement might be mute as Taiwan is expected to be reunified with China and countries that previously antagonized China will be frozen out of any political or economic relationship.
@craigkdillon 2 күн бұрын
One outcome I expect is that companies will pull back from China.
@clarkl7027 2 жыл бұрын
What amazed me is that why Lithuania provoked China in the first place, quiting the name of "Taipei" which is normal practice in other countries. My assumption is Lithuania showed the US their loyalty by provoking China in order to get the US support (financial and military) , helping them tackle their biggest geopolitical threat, Russia.
@JamesKerLindsay 2 жыл бұрын
True. Or it could just have been a mistake that got out of hand. People often assume that foreign ministries are all knowing. But this isn’t the case, especially in smaller states. However, once it had committed to a decision, and in the face of what may have been an overreaction by the Chinese MFA, it decided to stick to its position. Many crises are the products of mistakes and bad communication.
@clarkl7027 2 жыл бұрын
@@JamesKerLindsay I'd like to contest the view that it was simply a mistake. I believe that at least the Lithuanian foreign minister did know what he was doing, because he'd assessed the cost of provocation against China before the move (he said China can do no harm to Lithuania because China only accounts for 1% of Lithuania export), which indicates he'd planned to provoke China . Considering that many countres had established the representative office in the name of "Taipei", "representative office" per se is apparently not provocation. therefore, the provocation can only come from renaming the representative office as "Taiwan" instead of "Taipei". The Lithuanian foreign mimister was fully aware of that.
@alexlazar4738 2 жыл бұрын
@@JamesKerLindsay If you want to prove to the world that you are a banana republic all you have to do is to have some kind diplomatic relationship with Taiwan.
@clarkl7027 2 жыл бұрын
@@alexlazar4738 So true.
@motowntaiwan9079 2 жыл бұрын
@@JamesKerLindsay the office's name may well have been a mistake on the part of the Lithuanian MFA but I can assure you that this incident was 100 percent intentional by Taiwan's current pro-independence DPP ruling party.
@philyhai 2 жыл бұрын
This is not a small issue in world regional politics as you think. Lithuania is part of US' containment of China. The office opened itself is not the problem, it is the name in Chinese anger China. The name is carefully chosen by Taiwan independent intent. Lithuania is the stone US threw to test the water.
@bosnbruce5837 6 ай бұрын
Love your content! Great episode. RE: LITHUANIA. It might be worth mentioning that it's largely inhabited by: beat and onion slop eating Hungarians who had been polishing poles of German horses for 1000 years before being elevated to sapience by the USSR and have recently fully embraced their destiny of being obliterated into nothing by a Chinese Dongfeng missile
@herptek Жыл бұрын
The rest of the world should follow suit. China cannot cut economic relations to every first world nation just out of spite for not appearing to agree with it. If a country as small as Lithuania caused such a panic over an issue like this, it looks like the Chinese system isn't as confident about its legitimacy or future prospects as it wants to assure the world. The way to cut out the pretense would be to stop tolerating its misbehavior even at the expense of temporary economic loss. It sure worked with Russia.
@appl2597 2 жыл бұрын
You need to ask _WHY_ did Lithuania do this @3:37. They must know that China will punish anyone who choose to side with Taiwan's independence.
@wli2718 2 жыл бұрын
China offered Lithuania an olive branch (ie the 17+1), Lithuania turned it down and decided to recognize Taiwan instead. Lithuania's action was a clear challenge to China's sovereignty. its clear that Lithuania is the one looking for trouble here and they got what they asked for.
@fahimrind9714 2 жыл бұрын
Huh? the 17+1 forum was set up way before this happened. Lithuania left it before they talked to taiwan. Mr. Wuamo you have been found, please leave
@matthewct8167 2 жыл бұрын
Seems to me that China is reacting and showing people their hand. No matter how this issue is resolved, I don’t think China has handled this issue very wisely.
@justass1489 2 жыл бұрын
Very nervous guy telling CPR stuff. very good channel
@Vivaporius 2 жыл бұрын
It's a shame that two tiny countries of about two and half million people each have more backbone than a superpower of 340 million people and a regional alliance of more than half a billion.
@xiaomose7495 2 жыл бұрын
Isnt that obvious? For USA profit come first.
@hsoepangkat2007 2 жыл бұрын
You seem so naive. Without the US support and a grant of 600million USD export credit facility, Lithuania wouldn't have the nerve to do it.
@Vivaporius 2 жыл бұрын
@@hsoepangkat2007 Okay, so running with that logic, what's Slovenia's excuse then?
@hsoepangkat2007 2 жыл бұрын
@@Vivaporius you had better check the background of Janez Jansa, a very controversial political figure. He had many political problems now. I wouldn't be surprised if he tries to gain some political mileage for talking that idea. You will find that his idea was shot down by the President of Slovenia that claimed Jansa's statement had nothing to do with the foreign policy of the state of Slovenia. Is that clear enough for you? Those small countries all have political structure problems and God knows what they put into their constitution. The President is supposed to be responsible for foreign affairs but the Premier made decisions that embarrassed the President.
@Vivaporius 2 жыл бұрын
@@hsoepangkat2007 So basically it's much ado about nothing. Nice to know Jansa is angering the right people in his country if they are so willing to ignore China's willingness to bully other nations on the other side of the globe. Let's hope he remains a "controversial political figure" in that case.
@huas5350 2 жыл бұрын
This is the Chinese perspective: in this dispute, Lithuania itself is not important, it is just a pawn encouraged by the United States in the shadows. Lithuania's role here is mainly twofold. 1. to defeat China. The Americans are using the Lithuanian government as a front-runner to try to challenge the "One China" principle. If the challenge is successful, it will serve as a model in democratic countries and create diplomatic pressure on China. If the challenge fails, the U.S. has nothing to lose but Lithuania, but they can use the tone of "China is bullying small countries" to continue to mobilize global public opinion against China. 2. hitting the EU: provoking solidarity among EU countries. Curb China-EU economic and trade ties. This is a hidden line that Westerners often miss: a united, strong and more independent EU is not what the Americans want. This is why they provoked the British to leave the EU. By using the more pro-American Lithuania in the EU to challenge China, the Americans can exploit Europeans' ambiguous sympathy for the Taiwanese to split the coherence of the countries within the EU. The Germans and the French are essentially in need of Chinese economic ties to revive Europe's economy, which is why Merkel aggressively brokered a China-Europe trade deal before she stepped down. If, at this point, the Americans ultimately succeed, the Five Eyes will have succeeded in containing China while containing a more independent Europe.
@JamesKerLindsay 2 жыл бұрын
Thank you very much for that. It is always good to hear the perspective from the parties. I appreciate it. But I would contest the view that the US wanted the British out of the EU. Having Britain in the EU was far more useful. A strong ally in decision making. And a country opposed to further integration. I firmly believe that Washington was against Brexit.
@clarkl7027 2 жыл бұрын
This comment is so underrated! I really appreciate your insight on this "one stone, two birds" strategy, This perspective definitely makes more sense.
@SiRasputin 2 жыл бұрын
@@JamesKerLindsay translation of the profs post: Good points, of course you're right. But I'm trying to provide intellectual cover for the containment of China so I can't really admit you're overall thesis is correct. I'll just pull you up on brexit
@robertlan222 2 жыл бұрын
Lithuania should just say they misspoke on Taiwan and China should return to normal trade relations in exchange. Then they should hug and kiss and put this whole thing behind them.
@gediminaskucinskas6952 2 жыл бұрын
China reminds them too much of soviets. And Lithuania was the first to break away from soviet union. They clearly have no issues on punching above their weight. Is it smart? No, but thats the way it is.
@nabilalhami1681 2 жыл бұрын
Another Baltic country video in this channel. This region rarely comes in the headlines.
@alireact1827 2 жыл бұрын
No one is ready for this but. Do you think Twain needs newclear weapon to protetect itself?
@Cryptic_Chai 2 жыл бұрын
Heard even Slovenia joined in?
@JamesKerLindsay 2 жыл бұрын
Thanks. Yes, I do talk about this at the end of the video.
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