TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The Lithuanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced on Friday (April 12) that it would donate NT$1.7 million (50,000 euros) to assist Taiwan with its reconstruction efforts in Hualien after the 7.2 magnitude earthquake on April 3.
In a Lithuanian foreign ministry press release, Lithuanian Minister of Foreign Affairs Gabrielius Landsbergis said, "Our financial support for Taiwan's reconstruction works is a sign of solidarity with the people of Taiwan." Ties between Lithuania and Taiwan have grown closer, including in development cooperation, the foreign ministry said.
“Taiwan has significantly contributed to Lithuania's reconstruction projects in Ukraine,” it added.
Speaker of the Lithuanian Parliament Viktorija Cmilyte-Nielsen, among other officials, expressed concern for Taiwan through social media posts or text messages after the quake. They also expressed their willingness to assist.
Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) thanked Lithuania for its generous contribution to the reconstruction of Hualien. It reiterated that Taiwan and Lithuania are steadfast, like-minded allies who cooperate, assist each other, and contribute to the international community.
Taiwan and Lithuania have worked together to open schools destroyed by the war in Ukraine, including the Ruta kindergarten in Irpin and a high school in Borodyanka, MOFA said. The two countries will continue to promote democracy and be a force for good in the world, it said.