'Trilateral cooperation, close relations between the countries and mutual assistance in the present geopolitical context are more important than ever. For this reason we pay particular attention to the development of bilateral as well as trilateral relationsʼ, said the Prime Minister.
According to the Head of the Government, Lithuania together with its partners supports the Euro-Atlantic aspirations of Ukraine, defends the position of Ukraine in Brussels and capitals of the third countries. Ukraine as independent, sovereign and stable State that is strongly committed to ensuring democracy and the rule of law is a joint priority.
Saulius Skvernelis emphasised the achievements made by Ukraine within the country on the track towards EU membership. The Association Agreement contributed to the increase in trade between the countries, while visa free regime resulted in the increase of tourists from Ukraine. Since Lithuania implements youth exchange programmes with Ukraine and Poland, the Prime Minister suggested to unite and establish a tripartite youth exchange fund.
Actions are taken to ensure that the economy in the regions of Ukraine affected by the aggression from Russia flourish and develop. Next year Lithuania will grant one million euros to Avdiivka. According to the Prime Minister joint support projects including Poland should be initiated in the Eastern Ukraine.
The participants of the meeting also discussed about the joint interest to ensure the security of the area of the region. The joint Lithuanian − Polish − Ukrainian Brigade (LITPOLUKRBRIG) was mentioned as a good example of cooperation.
Prime Minister Saulius Skvernelis stressed that Lithuania calls Russia in all possible formats an aggressor, encourages the international community to stay united and insist on the implementation of the Minsk agreements by Russia. Unlawful elections in the occupied Donbass are strongly condemned and not recognized.
Prime Minister welcomed the initiation of the procedure aimed at the inclusion of EU and transatlantic trends into the Constitution of Ukraine. The myths about the impossibility of reforms in Ukraine prevailing in Europe that become stronger and stronger must be dispelled.
In addition, the participants discussed about closer cooperation in the trio format of the Eastern Partnership because the experience of Lithuania shows that regional cooperation always brings success. Collegial work, positive competition guarantees closer attention of EU and indicates the ability to concentrate on joint goals.
It was stressed that Lithuania, Poland and Ukraine are linked by close historic, cultural, economic and political ties which must be strengthened and developed.
