"Today, all of us together, once again we express our deep sympathy to the families of victims killed during the shocking terror attacks in Paris, also to all the people of France and other countries, who have been touched by this painful tragedy. At the same time, we stress that no political ends can be justified by terrorism; and the recent events are a challenge against humanity, and against values of the democratic world", said Prime Minister Butkevičius, and invited ambassadors to observe a minute of silence in remembrance of those killed.
Later on, the Prime Minister has noted that strengthening of the EU's external borders has become a necessity today with a view to safeguarding our people. "It is important not only in fighting illegal migration, but also in ensuring security of the Community citizens. Lithuania actively participates in the activities of Frontex (the European Agency for the Management of Operational Cooperation at the External Borders of the Member States of the European Union), the EU operations in fighting human trafficking in the Mediterranean Sea, and we contribute financially to the World Food Programme and the EU's trust fund for Syria and Africa", said Prime Minister Butkevičius.
It has been noted in the meeting that it is important to send a clear message that the EU will not tolerate the illegal migration, and that individuals who do not have the right to international protection will be returned to their countries of origin. It has also been stressed that it is no less important to strengthen fight against criminal groups engaged in document counterfeiting and smuggling of people across land and water routes.
The Prime Minister has assured the ambassadors that Lithuania is a rapidly developing country and an active member of international organisations, who stands in solidarity in dealing with problems of global significance. The EU ambassadors to Lithuania have agreed that geopolitical tensions and migration crisis in the region require unity and solidarity among all the states in Europe.
