News

On 25 May in Kristiansand, Norway, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Lithuania Gabrielius Landsbergis attended the 19th Ministerial Session of the Council of the Baltic Sea States (CBSS) along with other CBSS Ministers of Foreign Affairs and high-level representatives of the European Union. The meeting focused on Russia’s military aggression against Ukraine, possibilities of the CBSS member states to contribute to the provision of support for Ukraine, further strengthening regional cooperation, involving young people and civil society, and opportunities for accelerating the green and digital transformation.

“The CBSS remains an important forum for political dialogue and practical cooperation, especially when strengthening the unity of the region and defending our common values. We live in a time of changes, so we must remain united,” Landsbergis said.

The CBSS Foreign Ministers agreed on the need to use the CBSS format maximally to help Ukraine. With its strong expert groups, the CBSS, as an organisation, can provide assistance to civil society, particularly children who are affected by war and women that are the most vulnerable to all types of exploitation and abuse.

All CBSS member states agreed that following the suspension of Russia’s activities in the organisation, it was necessary to review its activities in the general context of the Baltic Sea region. Participants also believe that the CBSS must continue its work, remaining the main regional political forum and boosting practical activities in its strongest areas.

The Ministers of Foreign Affairs also signed a joint political declaration, condemning Russia's war in Ukraine and outlining further objectives and actions for the CBSS. The declaration highlights the special unity of the organisation that is based on shared values.

Germany, which will take over the CBSS Presidency from Norway, is obliged to prepare an analysis of the activities of the CBSS and proposals to improve them during the year of its Presidency.