The President of Lithuania underscored that the EU must assume greater responsibility for its own security. Therefore, appropriate defense spending is paramount. The militarization of the Kaliningrad region poses a threat to our region as well as to the European capitals. Failure to increase defense spending in the face of security challenges would be a mistake.
Only five NATO member states currently spend 2% of their GDP on defense. Lithuania, who has most rapidly increased its defense spending, will reach the 2% target next year.
According to the President, efficient use of the funds earmarked for defense is equally important. It is essential to aim for a more rapid decision making in NATO, strengthen cooperation between the EU and NATO without overlapping but by complimenting the Alliance.
Dalia Grybauskaitė underscored the importance of U.S. troops and military equipment in our region, as their presence constitutes an essential element of deterrence. The active role of the United States is crucial for ensuring the security of entire Europe. German leadership is also key for strengthening the security of the region and the Alliance. A German-led international NATO battalion is already deployed in Lithuania. An American military unit is also stationed in our country.
The discussion also focused on energy security in the EU. The President stressed that energy was being used as a tool of political domination in our region. The Nord Stream II pipeline is a geopolitical rather than a commercial project, aimed at dividing and ruling Europe. Lithuania clearly understands the threat of depending on one energy source. Following the construction of the LNG terminal and diversification of energy supply, Lithuania improved its energy security and protected itself from the negative impact of hostile forces.
During the discussion, Dalia Grybauskaitė also underscored the threat posed by the unsafe nuclear power plant in Astravyets to the security of entire Europe.
In reference to the approaching Brexit negotiations, the President pointed out that it was necessary to find solutions acceptable to both European and British people.
