In his opening speech, the President emphasized the solidarity and support of the Lithuanian people for Ukraine, highlighting the Ukrainian people’s brave and heroic resistance in their fight for freedom and national survival. He stressed that this resistance contributes not only to the defense of the international rules-based order but also to a better future for all.
“We saw how Russia’s war of aggression razed entire Ukrainian cities and destroyed civilian infrastructure, while also causing tragic loss of biodiversity, poisoning waterways, and threatening to create a toxic legacy for the coming generations. Russia’s deliberate attack on Ukraine’s largest dam at Kakhovka produced the worst environmental disaster in Europe since Chernobyl. Ukraine needs urgent, solid and united international assistance in protecting its environment,” the President said.
Gitanas Nausėda pointed out that discussions on preparing a plan for the implementation of the EU-Ukraine facility include considerations for green recovery and environmental reforms. However, he emphasized that providing financial resources will not be enough. According to the President, innovative approaches are needed to help Ukraine implement the necessary environmental reforms and build the absorption capacity of Ukrainian institutions for the implementation of reconstruction and green recovery projects.
Looking ahead, the President said, Ukraine will have to make rapid progress in renewables.
“Lithuania’s own experience shows, green energy is the best way to secure energy independence from Russia. As the first EU Member State to cut all Russia’s gas, oil and electricity imports, we are currently going green as fast as we can. And we are ready to help Ukraine with its green transition as well. Ukraine’s success in building a modern and green energy sector will be crucial for its post-war economic prosperity and recovery,” the President said.
Gitanas Nausėda underscored that when this brutal war ends and the recovery gains momentum, Ukraine is likely to become a hub of green economy. For this, Lithuania is ready to share its expertise.
