“In the short run, we must take a decision on the synchronization of the electricity systems of the Baltic countries with the European Continental Network and further implement the Rail Baltica project. This would prove that we are able to agree on issues that are important for the entire region,” said Lithuania’s Foreign Minister.
The Foreign Ministers discussed bilateral relations between Lithuania and Estonia, cooperation in the implementation of regional transport and energy projects, important items on the EU agenda, Estonia’s preparation to hold the Presidency of the Council of the European Union during the second half of 2017, security policy, the situation in Ukraine and relations with Russia. Lithuania’s Foreign Minister offered to share the experience of Lithuania’s Presidency of the Council of the EU.
“In 2017, Estonia will chair cooperation forums of the Baltic countries and will take over the Presidency of the Council of the EU in the middle of next year. It is a huge responsibility, especially bearing in mind the challenges facing the region, Europe and the world today. It is therefore important to maintain close ties with Estonia with the aim to coordinate positions and better protect the region’s interests,” said the head of Lithuania’s diplomacy.
Linkevičius stressed that the implementation of the nuclear power plant project in Belarus, while failing to comply with international nuclear safety standards, constituted a common problem for the region and the whole of Europe.
Lithuania’s Foreign Minister also said that Russia’s aggressive policy remained a major security threat in our region, so it was necessary to continue sanctions against Russia until the full implementation of the Minsk agreements. “At the same time, we must continue to make effort to ensure the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine,” said Lithuania’s Foreign Minister.
During the meeting, the interlocutors noted that the implementation of decisions of NATO’s summit in Warsaw would strengthen the security of the whole region. Lithuania and Estonia are actively preparing for the deployment of troops led by Germany and the United Kingdom to our countries.
Linkevičius also stressed that Europe was currently facing serious challenges, especially after the EU referendum in the UK. “We have to remain united and prove the viability and attractiveness of the EU to our citizens. We must regain the confidence of our fellow citizens,” said Lithuania’s Foreign Minister. According to him, the Eastern Partnership initiative remains an important tool for the expansion of democracy, stability and market economy in our neighbourhood.
“We must support the reform process in the Eastern Partnership countries. However, we cannot forget also about our commitments for the eastern neighbours, firstly, as regards granting visa-free regimes to Ukraine and Georgia. This is a question of our credibility,” said Linkevičius.
Ligi was appointed as Estonia’s Foreign Minister in September of this year, instead of Marina Kaljurand who ran for president.
