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On 6 May, the Minister of Foreign Affairs Kęstutis Budrys while on a working visit to Switzerland and met with the Vice-President and Foreign Minister of the country Ignazio Cassis. The heads of Lithuanian and Swiss diplomacy discussed bilateral cooperation, European security issues, and support for Ukraine.

On 6 May, the Minister of Foreign Affairs Kęstutis Budrys while on a working visit to Switzerland met with the Vice-President and Foreign Minister of the country Ignazio Cassis. The heads of Lithuanian and Swiss diplomacy discussed bilateral cooperation, European security issues, and support for Ukraine.

Lithuania's Foreign Minister welcomed the excellent bilateral relations between Lithuania and Switzerland, emphasizing the untapped potential for cooperation in the fields of life sciences, innovation, and research, as well as defence and engineering industries. Opportunities to deepen cooperation in science, education, and culture were also highlighted.

“Lithuania can be a strong partner for Switzerland in advanced cyber defence and innovation. We have developed cybersecurity capabilities, a strong national cyber governance framework, and we are leaders in Europe in the cybersecurity start-up ecosystem," said Budrys.

During the meeting, Lithuanian and Swiss Ministers discussed Euro-Atlantic security issues. The head of Lithuania's diplomacy stressed that in the current geopolitical environment, Europe’s security depends on the willingness to invest in its defence capabilities, as well as on the outcome of Russia’s war against Ukraine. Budrys said that strong transatlantic ties remain a cornerstone of our collective security, with the main objective of maintaining and strengthening them.

The Minister underlined that Switzerland's cooperation with the EU and NATO is an important element. Budrys presented to the Swiss colleague the priorities of the upcoming Lithuanian Presidency of the Council of the EU and discussed potential areas where the EU-Switzerland partnership could be deepened.

The Minister emphasized the importance of continuing cooperation between Lithuania and Switzerland in supporting Ukraine and implementing joint projects in support of Ukraine. According to Budrys, it is important to increase pressure on Russia to stop its aggression against Ukraine. The most effective way to achieve this is through sanctions.