“Cooperation with the U.S. is one of Lithuania’s key security guarantees, and U.S. support in providing critical defence capabilities in the region is indispensable,” Minister R.Karoblis underscored at the meetings.
Minister discussed with the Congressmen the security situation in the region, thanked the U.S. for the assistance in ensuring Lithuania’s security, and invited for closer cooperation in cyber defence and infrastructure development.
The Congressmen took interest in Lithuania’s contribution to international security during the visit at the Ministry of National Defence. According to Minister, even though a small nation, Lithuania is contributing to 9 multinational operations, including in Afghanistan, Mali, and Iraq, he also noted that Lithuania is a regional leader regarding assistance to Ukraine.
The U.S. guests underlined the necessity for NATO allies to abide by the agreement on defence financing, in his turn, Defence Minister stressed that the Government of Lithuania would continue increasing national defence budget to amount to 2.06 percent of GDP as soon as next year.
The representatives of the Ministry of National Defence and the U.S. Congress also discussed energy security and independence situation in the country and region, and Russian sanctions. Minister R.Karoblis underscored Lithuania’s support to the newly imposed U.S. sanctions on Russia. “We have to respect our values and show that Russia cannot act lawlessly,” Minister of National Defence said.
The U.S. congressional delegation headed by Joe Wilson also visited the NATO enhanced Forward Presence Battalion Battle Group troops in Rukla.
