News

On 28 October, Minister of Foreign Affairs Kęstutis Budrys is paying a working visit to Rome and the Vatican.

At the Vatican, the Minister met Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, Secretary for Relations with States and International Organisations of the Holy See’s Secretariat of State.

Budrys emphasised that Lithuania and the Holy See enjoy close relations based on mutual respect. The Minister noted that next year will mark two important symbolic anniversaries: the 640th anniversary of the Baptism of Lithuania and the centenary of diplomatic relations between Lithuania and the Holy See. According to the Minister, these occasions provide further opportunities to deepen bilateral relations. Budrys also noted that the Seimas has designated 2027 as the Year of Blessed Archbishop Jurgis Matulaitis and the Concordat between the Republic of Lithuania and the Holy See.

Budrys and Archbishop Gallagher discussed the consequences of Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, the return of unlawfully deported Ukrainian children, the humanitarian situation in the occupied territories and preparations for the coming winter. The Minister stressed the important role of the Holy See in pursuing humanitarian objectives and using its existing channels of dialogue to address problems caused by the war. He called for further international efforts to protect Ukrainian civilians, secure the return of Ukrainian children and provide assistance to people suffering as a result of Russia’s aggression.

“Russia’s abduction and indoctrination of Ukrainian children is one of the most appalling crimes of this war. The international community must do more to ensure that these children are returned to their families and communities as soon as possible. At the same time, we must maintain our steadfast support for Ukraine and make it clear that violations of international law will inevitably have consequences,” Budrys said.

The meeting also included an exchange of views on other current issues relating to international and European security, respect for human rights and freedoms, including freedom of religion, and the role of the Catholic Church in today’s world.