News

On 28 March Lithuanian Minister of Foreign Affairs Antanas Valionis in his speech  int the Seimas on occasion of the second anniversary of Lithuania‘s accession to NATO underlined that Lithuania ensured itself a reliable security on the most favourable conditions by accessing the world history’s most powerful defence Alliance.

“Two years ago here in the Seimas we had ratified the Washington Treaty and thus changed Lithuania’s geopolitical position forever,” Foreign Minister said.

Minister Valionis touched upon the importance of the Alliance’s reforms aimed at adaptation to the new international security environment. According to the Minister Lithuanian security policy should not be less dynamic.

“NATO is a cornerstone of our security. We stand for firm transatlantic ties based upon strategic partnership between strong and open Europe and North America,” the Head of Lithuanian Diplomacy said.

According to the Foreign Minister the spread of democratic values both in the Euro-Atlantic area and beyond is a matter of special importance for Lithuania. Our country has accumulated a wealth of unique experience of neighbourhood cooperation. Lithuania’s Euro-Atlantic integration experience has already proved to be highly valuable for Alliance’s partners in Ukraine, the countries of the South Caucasus as well as in the Western Balkans.

“We are ready to participate in NATO operations to keep peace, ensure security and bring stability. Because NATO membership is first of all our commitment to cherish the values and interests if the Alliance and protect them when necessary. This enhances our own security,” Minister Valionis said and reminded that Lithuania’s activity in Afghanistan is one of the examples.

“It is a matter of our ingenuity and activity how we are able to use the possibilities and instruments of the Alliance to build our country’s welfare, to participate in the processes of the region, Europe and the word. Let us talk about it, discuss it. Because Lithuania’s safety and the future of NATO are in our hands,” Lithuanian Foreign Minister stated.