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On 29 March, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Lithuania Gabrielius Landsbergis met with the Ambassador of Slovenia to Lithuania Božena Forštnarič Boroje. The meeting discussed prospects of bilateral relations, the COVID-19 pandemic situation in both countries and in the European Union, the situation in Belarus, Russia, the two countries and the EU's cooperation with China in the 17+ 1 format, the situation regarding the Ostrovets nuclear power plant, and prospects for the development of the Three Seas Initiative.

The Ambassador Forštnarič Boroje presented the priorities of Slovenia's Presidency of the Council of the EU in the second half of 2021, which should be finalised in June.

Landsbergis drew attention to the fact that during Slovenia's Presidency of the Council of the EU, the Eastern Partnership Summit would be held, which was expected to adopt the most ambitious Joint Declaration that would optimally reflect the initiative's long-term agenda. “Lithuania is looking forward to the summit that will take place in a physical, live and full format. Hopefully, the Slovenian Presidency will pay attention and support the organisation of a successful Eastern Partnership Summit,” said Landsbergis.

With regard to China, Landsbergis called on Slovenia to consider the idea of the EU member states' cooperation with China in the 27+ 1 format. This format would enable the EU countries to maintain a unified front that would have more leverage vis-à-vis China.

As regards the situation in Belarus, Landsbergis stressed the need to continue to support civil society in its demands for a new free and fair election, and democratic change, as the people protests against the regime. “The EU must continue to build a positive agenda that will bring  tangible benefits to people's lives in Belarus. We call on the EU to announce its plan of economic support for a democratic Belarus as soon as possible,” said Landsbergis.

As regards the human rights situation in Russia, Lansbergis expressed his concerns about a deterioration in Alexei Navalny's health in prison, as well as the ongoing repression of civil society and opposition members. “This year is very important for Russia. As the elections of deputies to the State Duma approach, tensions in the country intensify, the Kremlin does not feel confident, and the scope of persecution of opponents is widening. Thus, we must maintain the EU’s value-based policy towards Russia and continue to support civil society and human rights defenders," said Landsbergis.

The participants of the meeting also welcomed strengthening bilateral diplomatic relations and agreed to further develop cooperation in the areas of mutual interest.

This year, Lithuania and Slovenia will mark the 30th anniversary of the establishment of their diplomatic relations.