Egils Levits vs Qiying

Levits served as a judge at the European Court of Justice from 2004 to 2019, where he participated in rulings on EU law. His tenure included cases on fundamental rights, competition law, and the internal market, contributing to the development of EU jurisprudence.

Egils Levits was elected President of Latvia in May 2019 by the Saeima, winning 61 votes out of 100. He was a former judge at the European Court of Justice and a member of the New Unity party, and his election was seen as a continuation of pro-European policies.

As president, Levits promoted digitalization and e-government initiatives in Latvia, including the development of a digital identity system and online public services. His efforts aimed to improve efficiency and transparency in government operations.

Qiying, as Qing plenipotentiary, negotiated and signed the Treaty of Nanjing with Britain, ending the First Opium War. The treaty ceded Hong Kong, opened five treaty ports, and imposed an indemnity, marking the start of the unequal treaty system.

Qiying negotiated the Treaty of Wanghia with the United States, granting Americans extraterritoriality and most-favored-nation status. This further eroded Qing sovereignty and set a precedent for other Western powers.

Qiying was executed by the Qing court for his failure to negotiate effectively with the British during the Second Opium War. His death reflected the court's dissatisfaction with his handling of foreign affairs.