Minister Linkevičius stressed that, in Lithuania’s effort to meet burden sharing commitments, its defence spending had reached 2 per cent in 2018. Lithuania stood behind a serious approach that the United States took to defence and expected the Allies’ support in enhancing NATO forward presence and air defence in the region as well as in speeding up decision-making. Persistent presence of US forces in the region would be the best tool of deterrence and a guarantor of security, Foreign Minister Linas Linkevičius said.
Mr Minister underlined the significance of transatlantic unity – that would be the most valuable message of the NATO Summit. He noted that strong transatlantic ties were indispensible. When external forces aiming to destroy transatlantic unity became stronger, the need to cooperate was much more important than any possible differences in views.
Linas Linkevičius thanked the US for firm and consistent efforts to ensure security in the Baltic region and for its strict stance on sanctions against Russia.
State Secretary Pompeo emphasised the unwavering commitment of the USA to Article 5 of the NATO Treaty and the principles set out in the Baltic-US Summit Declaration. He reiterated the importance of defence commitments to be met by European countries.
Support to NATO partners, Georgia and Ukraine, was also discussed during the conversation.
