Prime Minister in Berlin: Lithuania Highly Values Germany’s Leadership in Europe
Today, during a working visit to Berlin, Prime Minister Inga Ruginienė met with German Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz, as well as President of the Bundestag Julia Klöckner. The meetings focused on the strategic partnership between Lithuania and Germany, which, as Prime Minister I. Ruginienė noted, is exceptionally deep and productive, as well as on security and defence, support for Ukraine, key issues on the EU and NATO agendas, and other topics.
“Cooperation between Lithuania and Germany spans politics, defence, the economy, science, education and culture. We are deeply grateful to Germany for its leadership in Europe and for its significant contribution to strengthening NATO and the security of the entire eastern flank. In this new reality, Europe must not only respond, but actively shape its own future – becoming stronger, more resilient and competitive on a global scale. We firmly support Germany’s readiness to assume this immensely important leadership role and are prepared to contribute politically, practically and strategically,” said Prime Minister I. Ruginienė.
During her meeting with F. Merz, the Prime Minister highlighted words spoken by the German Chancellor in Vilnius, of particular significance to Lithuania: Lithuania’s security is our security. The defence of Vilnius is the defence of Berlin: Lithuania’s security is our security. The defence of Vilnius is the defence of Berlin.
“For Lithuania and our people, this is the most important message we could have heard. We are pleased that these words are accompanied by real, day-to-day cooperation, the clearest example of which is the deployment of a German brigade in Lithuania. Ensuring smooth preparations to receive the brigade by 2027 is a priority of the Government I lead,” said the Prime Minister.
Meetings with German Chancellor F. Merz and Bundestag President J. Klöckner also addressed the security situation in the region as Russia continues its war against Ukraine, cooperation in countering hybrid threats, and EU and NATO initiatives.
European security is inseparable from a sustainable and just peace in Ukraine, and Ukraine’s full membership of the EU is an important component of the continent’s security and of Ukraine’s successful future, the Prime Minister said. Continued support for the attacked country and increased pressure on Russia, which is not interested in peace – including through the strengthening of sanctions against the aggressor – are essential.
In discussions with Germany’s leaders, the Prime Minister emphasised the importance of a transatlantic relationship based on partnership and dialogue. From NATO’s eastern flank to the Arctic, shared interests bind us together, and these can be safeguarded most effectively through constructive cooperation among allies.
Lithuania and Germany are also closely connected through cultural and human ties. As the Prime Minister noted, the upcoming Lithuanian Season in Germany will undoubtedly provide an excellent opportunity for the societies of both countries to get to know one another even better.
Earlier today, the head of government also paid tribute to the victims of the Holocaust at the memorial in Berlin. This week, on 27 January, Lithuania and the world marked International Holocaust Remembrance Day.