Prime Minister: successful Baltic cooperation is evidenced by concrete works and achievements

In a conference call, Acting Prime Minister Saulius Skvernelis and Prime Minister of Estonia Jüri Ratas have discussed the results of joint work of recent years.

The Prime Ministers have discussed the situation regarding the COVID-19 pandemic. Skvernelis has mentioned that the vaccine is expected in the near future, and that it is important that citizens trust it and get vaccinated. Close cooperation of the Baltic states and regular contacts among state institutions are highly useful in this regard.

Other important matters and joint work have also been discussed. ‘Although we faced challenges, I can still confidently state that real and important work has been done on joint regional projects – both synchronization and transport infrastructure projects,’ said Skvernelis.

Acting Prime Minister Skvernelis has also emphasised that the main objective of the further implementation of the Rail Baltica project is the commissioning of Rail Baltica in 2026.

It was emphasized during the conversation that the synchronization of the Baltic electricity networks with the European grid was a strategic energy security project of Lithuania: ‘The period until 2025 will be especially important for the Baltic states in desynchronizing electricity networks from the post-Soviet system and synchronizing them with Western Europe,’ said Skvernelis.

Skvernelis was pleased with the principled agreement of the Baltic states not to admit electricity from the Astravyets NPP in Belarus. The solidarity of the Baltic states demonstrates a responsible approach to the importance of ensuring nuclear safety in the EU’s neighbourhood and energy security in the region.

Skvernelis has sincerely thanked his Estonian colleagues for their excellent work during the Chairmanship of the Baltic Council of Ministers in 2020 and for the cooperation in implementing the priorities and achieving common goals. He has also wished success to the new Lithuanian Prime Minister and the new Cabinet taking over the Chairmanship of the Baltic Council of Ministers in 2021.