Strengthening of the frontier with Belarus and Russia is a priority to both, Lithuania and Poland, which is also critical in strengthening the external NATO and EU border. While Lithuania further pursues implementation of the countermobility action plan with security of the Suwalki Gap at its centre, Poland is making considerable investments in its border fortification as well.
“Poland remains Lithuania’s strategic security and defence partner,” underscored Minister of National Defence L. Kasčiūnas welcoming Poland’s new Defence Minister to Lithuania. L. Kasčiūnas praised the decision of the Ally to commit EUR 2.5 billion for protection of border with Russia and Belarus under the East Shield Initiative.
“We are prepared to work together to unify national and regional efforts, including the Baltic Defence Line initiative implemented by all the Baltic states. Both of the initiatives send a clear message to the adversary: any intent of an unchecked incursion in the territory of the Baltic states and Poland will be arrested starting first inch,” Minister stated.
Lithuania expects to fully develop 27 engineer fortification parks by 2025. The Lithuanian countermobility action plan covers not only engineer fortification parks but also reconstruction of drainage ditches in the areas bordering Belarus, development of woodland patches and alleys, refurbishment of roads and bridges, and whatever else is necessary. All the listed steps align in Lithuania’s defence line concept which is an integral part of the Baltic defence line. Lithuania foresees allocating approx. EUR 600 million by 2034 for countermobility purposes.
In the conversation with Minister W. Kosiniak-Kamysz L. Kasčiūnas pointed out the importance of bilateral cooperation and a coordinated response in the face of a mutual threat and added that both countries were partnering to confront the mutual threat and strengthen security and defence on NATO’s eastern flank. Regular training of Lithuanian and Polish military personnel takes place under the bilateral Lithuanian-Polish Orsha Plan.
Ministers also discussed assistance to Ukraine which include the different formats of support initiatives. Poland plays an important role in supporting Ukraine and ensuring the assistance is processed smoothly.
Ahead of the NATO Summit in Washington, Ministers also discussed the priorities on its agenda. implementation of the NATO defence plans remains Lithuania’s key priority. In order to deliver on an effective deterrence of hostile forces, Allied defence budgets need to become contracts that facilitate national capability growth and defence industry development.
