‘We are grateful to France for its contribution to the strengthening of NATO’s eastern flank and of the alliance as a whole, also for its support to Ukraine, which is today absorbing Russia’s strikes not only against itself but also against the entire democratic world’, said Prime Minister Šimonytė.
At the meeting with Ms Borne, the Prime Minister has noted that Lithuania is seeking to deepen bilateral economic cooperation with France, which is why initiatives such as the third Lithuania-France Business Forum, which opened on Tuesday, are key. Lithuania sees particular potential for partnership in innovation and high-tech, including life sciences, renewable energy, information and communication technologies, also logistics.
As Russia continues its unprovoked and brutal war against Ukraine, launching new attacks against civilians, such as the one earlier this week, it is important to maintain strategic patience, to increase pressure on Russia through sanctions, and to continue to support Ukraine in responding to its expressed defence needs, the Prime Minister said.
‘For our part, we, the NATO member states, who demonstrated unity and agreed on the necessary decisions at the Madrid Summit, must implement these decisions smoothly and swiftly, and move towards a modern forward defence in the east of the Alliance, without leaving cracks in our collective security’, said Šimonytė.
The parties have also discussed Europe’s energy security, the complete rejection of Russian resources, which Lithuania has already done.
’We are in favour of joint European solutions to tackle the consequences of the surge in energy prices, as we are facing the same challenges’, said the Lithuanian Head of Government.
Prime Minister Šimonytė has also noted the decision to organise a Lithuanian cultural season in France in 2024, which will serve as an opportunity to share Lithuanian culture with the French people.
