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The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Lithuania, Kęstutis Budrys, paid a working visit to Spain. The Minister met with the Spanish Minister for Foreign Affairs, José Manuel Albares Bueno, in Madrid on Friday. The Lithuanian and Spanish Ministers discussed bilateral cooperation, strengthening European security and defence, support for Ukraine, and preparations for the upcoming NATO summit in The Hague.

"The current security situation requires our unity and our joint efforts to strengthen Europe. Only through our decisive action and a strong commitment to collective defence can we ensure Europe's long-lasting security and peace in Ukraine," said Minister Budrys.

The Minister emphasized that Lithuania appreciated Spain's contribution to strengthening NATO's eastern flank.

"Spain's participation in NATO's Air Policing Mission in Lithuania is a clear sign of solidarity among allies and sends a strong message of deterrence to our enemies. We invite the Spanish to contribute to the implementation of the rotational model of air defence in the Baltic States - a necessary step in bringing the security of NATO's forefront lines to a new level," Budrys added.

The leaders of Lithuania and Spain discussed the strengthening of European security and defence. Budrys stressed that Europe's ability to make the necessary decisions now determined the future of our security. According to the Minister, all European allies must increase their defence spending to address current security challenges. According to Budrys, it is important to seek to agree to a defence spending target of 5% of the gross domestic product during the NATO summit in The Hague.

“NATO’s strength is in our unity. Russia is preparing for a long-term confrontation with NATO. Thus, our task is to be stronger than ever, so that the enemy does not dare to test our unity and strength. This requires investment in defence", said the Minister.

The Ministers discussed the need to continue fully supporting Ukraine and working towards a just and lasting peace. Budrys stressed the importance of significantly tightening sanctions against Russia. In addition, the  EU's 18th sanctions package must be truly painful for the aggressor and target the energy sector.

This ministerial meeting reaffirmed the rapidly growing partnership between Lithuania and Spain. Minister Budrys invited Minister José Manuel Albares to visit Lithuania, further strengthening bilateral cooperation.