News

On 14 December in Brussels, at the European Union’s General Affairs Council meeting, Lithuanian Minister of Foreign Affairs Audronius Ažubalis noted that in order to draw closer to the EU, Serbia needed to improve its business environment fundamentally. The Minister made this statement during the discussion regarding the Council’s conclusions on the EU’s enlargement policy,

“We are concerned about business environment in Serbia, because freedom to do business and investment protection is one of the most important requirements for the countries aspiring to become the EU members,” the Foreign Minister said.

During the meeting, foreign ministers also discussed preparations for the European Council on 16-17 December. The Council will aim to agree on an amendment to the EU treaties that is required to create a mechanism, which will allow ensuring an effective EU assistance to the member states that are facing financial difficulties.

Head of Lithuania’s diplomacy noted that Lithuania was cautious about its position on the amendment to the EU treaties that is required to legitimize a permanent crisis mechanism.

On the other hand, Lithuania is interested in financial stability of the entire EU. Therefore, in cooperation with the national parliament, Lithuania will consider a possibility to approve of a partial amendment to the EU treaties, aiming to establish a permanent crisis mechanism.

“It is important to ensure that further consultations on this issue would be conducted transparently and involving all EU member states and national parliaments. Besides, the currently functioning mechanism for non-eurozone countries is very important for Lithuania,” the Foreign Minister noted.

The General Affairs Council adopted the Council’s conclusions on the EU’s response to disasters. At the meeting, the Belgian Presidency of the EU also presented the 5th assessment report on economic, social and territorial cohesion in the EU and a report on the implementation of "Europe 2020" strategy for jobs and growth.

On 13 December in Brussels, Lithuanian Minister of Foreign Affairs Audronius Ažubalis also attended the EU Foreign Affairs Council.