June 22 — Asked whether Lithuania had agreed to reopen a temporary chargé d’affaires and whether China would reopen its embassy to restore bilateral ties, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said the current difficulties in China‑Lithuania relations stem from Lithuania’s violation of the One‑China principle and its reversal of political commitments in the diplomatic communique. Guo said China has repeatedly stated its position, keeps communication channels open, and hopes Lithuania will pro

Capital Economics economist Thomas Matthews said in a report that whoever becomes the UK’s next leader will face the same fiscal strain. Latest public finance data show May public sector net borrowing exceeded Office for Budget Responsibility forecasts. Media reports say incumbent leader Keir Starmer is expected to resign on Monday, potentially bringing a new prime minister. Matthews said there is almost no room to increase spending without triggering a bond market rebound.

Starmer announced he will resign as UK prime minister following a successful internal challenge, clearing the way for Andy Burnham to succeed him. Burnham, the long-serving mayor of Manchester, won a parliamentary seat last week, making him eligible to mount a leadership challenge. Starmer said his parliamentary party had answered the question of whether he remained the best person to lead into the next election and that he accepted their view. Labour leadership nominations open July 9 and the contest will be completed by Sept. 1; Starmer will remain in office until the process concludes and said he will do everything to ensure a smooth handover.