“We are grateful to Hungary for support in ensuring security in the Baltic states and in the region. Hungary was the first NATO member state after the United States to send its rotational forces to Lithuania in 2014 as NATO’s reassurance measure. This step shows that Hungary stands in solidarity with our nation responding to threats from the east,” said Linkevičius.
The Foreign Ministers discussed the situation in Ukraine and relations with Russia. Linkevičius stressed the need to maintain the EU’s focus and the Euro-Atlantic unity on sanctions against Russia and the provision of support for Ukraine.
According to Linkevičius, Lithuania and Hungary have maintained their historical and cultural ties since the 14th century. The two countries have enjoyed a strong bilateral relationship and seek to strengthen economic ties. Lithuania and Hungary are looking for opportunities to cooperate in the fields of laser, pharmaceutical and food production. A consortium of two Lithuanian laser manufacturers – Ekspla and Light Conversion – have built a laser system for one Hungarian laser research centre. The value of the order amounted to EUR 4 million.
In the meeting, Lithuania’s Foreign Minister noted that the Astravets nuclear power plant was being constructed in violation of international environmental and nuclear safety standards, and posed a threat not only to Lithuania, but also to other EU member states.
As regards challenges for the EU’s agenda, Linkevičius said that the countries’ opinions coincided in most cases. The officials also emphasized protection of rights of Lithuanian and Hungarian citizens living in the United Kingdom.
