In Rukla, Lithuanian and Dutch Prime Ministers stress the need for strengthening collective defence and deterrence
Lithuania highly values the Netherlands' contribution to the security of the Baltic region and the entire Alliance, said Prime Minister Gintautas Paluckas during a meeting in Rukla with Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof. Following their visit to Dutch troops serving in NATO's Enhanced Forward Presence Battlegroup, the two leaders held a bilateral dialogue on pressing issues.
‘NATO member states must align their focus and investments in defence with the threats at our doorstep, which are currently held at bay through the immense sacrifices of Ukraine. My government is firmly committed to allocating no less than 3.5% of GDP to defence, and next year’s budget will exceed this target. We believe it is imperative for all allies to agree on a minimum threshold of 3% of GDP for defence at the upcoming NATO Summit in the Hague. Such a commitment would be a powerful demonstration of unity and deterrence,’ said Prime Minister Paluckas.
Highlighting the Netherlands' substantial contribution to regional security, Prime Minister Paluckas also noted the deployment of the country's Patriot air defence system in Lithuania for exercises in July, a key step towards the practical implementation of NATO's rotational air defence model.
The counterparts also discussed support for Ukraine, emphasizing the need to strengthen Ukrainian resilience without pressuring the nation into concessions to the aggressor or agreements that fail to secure sustainable and lasting peace.
‘The Netherlands’ support is invaluable for Ukraine, where I had the opportunity to visit just days ago. Together, we have done much to help Ukraine withstand, but we can do more to help it defeat the aggressor,’ added Paluckas.
In addressing broader security concerns, the leaders highlighted the need to enhance resilience to hybrid threats, protect critical infrastructure, and respond with unity and resolve.
The meeting also touched upon economic cooperation between Lithuania and the Netherlands. Prime Minister Paluckas emphasized that the Netherlands is a key economic partner for Lithuania, and the bilateral relations still hold untapped potential for growth, particularly in sectors with high added value.
Last updated: 30-12-2024
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