During the meeting, the priorities for cooperation with Canada were discussed, including the strengthening of transatlantic ties, security and defense cooperation, Canada’s interaction with the European Union, support for Ukraine, and policy towards the Indo-Pacific region.
According to the Head of State, Canada is a like-minded partner, a country with which Lithuania has historically maintained close cooperation in various fields. The relationship between the two countries is further strengthened by the large Lithuanian community in Canada. The President emphasized the importance of fostering the national identity of children and young people, as well as involving community leaders and professionals in activities aimed at promoting Lithuania’s security and prosperity.
According to Gitanas Nausėda, there is a need to further strengthen economic cooperation with Canada in high-value sectors, defense, science, tourism, and culture.
As priorities within the International Civil Aviation Organization, the Head of State highlighted the continued isolation of Russia in the organization, as well as addressing issues related to the actions of Russia and Belarus, which pose a threat to the security of civil aviation.
Egidijus Meilūnas, Lithuania’s new Ambassador to Canada, brings extensive diplomatic experience, having served as Ambassador to Ireland, Indonesia, Singapore, New Zealand, Australia, Japan, and Poland. For the past four years, he has served as Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs.