Lithuanian and German Foreign Ministers discuss bilateral partnership, response to new threats in Europe
On 16 April in Vilnius, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Lithuania Linas Linkevičius in a meeting with German Federal Minister for Foreign Affairs Frank-Walter Steinmeier discussed strengthening bilateral partnership, armed aggression against Ukraine, relations with Russia, the EU’s Eastern Neighbourhood, energy and information security issues.
“We want more Germany in Lithuania: we want more investment, business, culture and fight together against security challenges. Today we have agreed on a joint plan of action regarding intensified cooperation aimed at supporting media, implementation of public education projects and fostering closer ties among our civil societies. The projects include Lithuanian-German Forum, scientific and research centres, NGOs and youth exchange. Germany plays a very important role in implementation of decisions of the NATO Summit in Wales”, Lithuania’s Foreign Minister noted.
“German fighters have been on duty in the Baltic Air Policing mission at Šiauliai Air Base five times already. This year, Germany will send its contingent again to take part in the exercise in Lithuania. Germany’s contribution to the security of NATO members and the region is very significant and it sets an excellent example of the Alliance solidarity,” said Lithuania’s Foreign Minister.
Linkevičius underlined that in the face of Russian aggression against Ukraine, the EU had to unanimously and consistently adhere to the agreed sanctions policy, which must continue to be clearly linked to the complete fulfilment of the Minsk agreements.
“Our actions have to be robust in order to stop Russian aggression in Ukraine. Pressure should continue until the Minsk Agreements are fulfilled. Together we need to help Ukraine strengthen its economy, make reforms and get closer to the EU,” said Lithuania’s Foreign Minister.
The Foreign Ministers have also discussed the upcoming Eastern Partnership Summit in Riga, Lithuanian Presidency of the UN Security Council.
Social media
