Last Thursday, MEPs adopted plans to facilitate the uptake of renewable and low-carbon gases, including hydrogen, into the EU gas market.

Minister of National Defence Laurynas Kasčiūnas underscored at a meeting with Ambassador of the United States to Lithuania HE Kara McDonald the importance of the U.S. force presence in Lithuania, the necessity to support Ukraine and to develop cooperation between the Lithuanian-U.S. defence industry. Besides the key highlights, other important aspects of bilateral cooperation were addressed as well.

The European Parliament on Thursday granted discharge to the Commission, all decentralised agencies and the development funds.

The Committee on Constitutional Affairs endorsed changes to internal rules to tackle workplace conflicts and promote good office management.

On Monday, Prime Minister Ingrida Šimonytė met with Enrico Letta, President of the Jacques Delors Institute, who is leading the preparation of a report on the future of the Single Market. At the meeting, which was also attended by Finance Minister Gintarė Skaistė, the Head of Government shared her insights and Lithuania's perceived priorities for strengthening the Single Market's potential and the EU's global competitiveness.

On Friday, President Gitanas Nausėda met with the Prime Minister of Ukraine, Denys Shmyhal. The President and the Ukrainian Prime Minister discussed Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, the situation on the frontline, the need for military and financial support, Ukraine’s reconstruction and joint Lithuanian-Ukrainian defense projects, the process of Ukraine’s integration into the European Union as well as its prospects of moving closer to NATO.

Delivering on our priorities is the best tool to push against disinformation, said EP President Roberta Metsola at European Council

After over three years at the helm of the Ministry of National Defence, Arvydas Anušauskas handed over the flag of the Ministry of National Defence and scepter, symbol of power, to his successor Laurynas Kasčiūnas on March 26.

Last Wednesday, Parliament and Council reached a provisional agreement on extending trade liberalisation measures for Ukraine in the face of Russia’s war of aggression.

President Gitanas Nausėda will participate in the European Council meeting in Brussels on 21–22 March. The main focus of the March meeting will be on support for Ukraine, defense and security, and EU enlargement.