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On 3 September, after the informal meeting of EU foreign ministers (Gymnich) in Bratislava, at the Slovak Presidency‘s of the Council of the European Union initiative, a meeting took place with foreign ministers of the EU and the Eastern Partnership countries, during which the prospects of the Eastern Partnership were discussed.

Linkevičius stated that all countries of the Eastern Partnership programme are diverse, have different motivation, agenda, expectations and have reached different results, therefore differentiated approach of the EU and targeted support in the areas, where partners show activity and capacity to absorb assistance, are very important.

“With respect to Lithuanian experience, I would suggest to pay special attention to the implementation of a free trade agreement. Communication is also extremely important, i.e. partner country governments are responsible for providing the society with comprehensive information on the reasons and results of the reforms. It is essential to respond to misinformation, rumours and unjustified accusations in timely manner. It is equally important to formulate realistic expectations and to avoid unnecessary disappointment in times of difficulty,” – said Linkevičius.
 
Minister emphasized the relevance of the Eastern Partnership programme.
 
“It is often asked if the Eastern Partnership has a future. Even during the Lithuanian Presidency there was a rush to “bury” the programme, when we were facing major challenges, especially in Ukraine. Life has shown that the Eastern Partnership is still relevant and it has a future. It is a sign of success or failure not only for partners but also for us, EU countries. Therefore, we now have to plan the next summit and project the results. And today, it is very important to fulfil the promise to Ukraine and Georgia if they complete all necessary reforms and commitments – to grant them a visa-free regime,” – stated Linkevičius.
 
Ministers discussed the necessity to maintain the EU, to sustain the involvement of EU Member States and Eastern Partners in the Eastern Partnership policy and to ensure shared responsibility. The partner countries were encouraged to continue reforms with determination, especially those that are related to the implementation of Association Agreements (AA/DCFTA).
 
On the same day, during the meeting with the Turkish Minister for European Union Affairs and Chief Negotiator Ömer Çelik, the stress was put on the necessity of an open dialogue between the EU and Turkey.
 
According to Linkevičius, it is important to talk with Turkey directly, not only by sending written statements and criticism. The Minister stated that Turkey is a candidate for EU membership, member of EU Customs Union, important NATO ally with an army of half a million.  The Lithuanian Minister also asserted that Turkey’s role in coping with the refugee crisis has to be taken into consideration – currently there are around three million refugees in Turkey.
 
“On 22 August, I was the first EU minister, who visited Ankara after the failed coup. I said at the time that I believe that the Government will respect its commitments to the human rights and the rule of law. Turkey committed to resolve the cases of the organizers of the coup in a fair and transparent manner. We have to provide them with an opportunity,” said Linkevičius.
 
The speeches of EU ministers show that the EU supports democratically elected Turkish authorities and condemns the attempt of the coup. The need for an open EU and Turkey dialogue was emphasized as well as the importance for Turkey to respect the rule of law and democracy. The EU expects Turkey to honour its commitments regarding the migration issue. It was also noted that visa liberalisation has to be based on the implementation of commitments.
 
EU ministers also met with the ministers of the EU candidate countries – Albania, Montenegro, Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, Serbia and Turkey. Together they discussed the issues of counterterrorism and prevention of radicalisation. The discussion highlighted the importance of countering the ideological causes of radicalisation and showed that prevention of radicalisation may be ensured by an enhanced cooperation between the EU and the candidate countries as well as the enlargement of the EU. Moreover, attention was paid to the youth education and the increase of youth employment.