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On Monday, 16 June, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Lithuania, Kęstutis Budrys, met with the honorary consuls of Lithuania, who came to participate in the traditional gathering. During the meeting, the Minister presented Lithuania's foreign policy priorities, and support for Ukraine, discussed the challenges and objectives of cultural and economic diplomacy, and answered questions from consuls.

According to Minister Budrys, in the context of geopolitical challenges, strengthening security remains Lithuania's top priority. "Russia poses a long-term threat to our region. We know what it means to be occupied by Russia, and in Ukraine, the aggressor is behaving even more cruelly. This is why we are increasing defense spending, mobilising partners, and sending a clear message: Lithuania takes care of its security and that of the Euro-Atlantic area. Foreign investment figures and conversations with investors show that we are doing the right thing – our security is not in doubt," the Minister said.

The head of Lithuania's diplomacy also emphasized that support for Ukraine is an important direction of Lithuania's foreign policy. "Ukraine's victory and Euro-Atlantic integration is a guarantee of Europe‘s and our own security," said Budrys.

The Minister also emphasized the need to seek accountability for the agressor for war crimes and crimes against humanity. “What Russia is doing in Ukraine is unlawful. It is not just a conflict, but a crime of aggression. We do not stop repeating this and pursuing the accountability of the aggressor, because only in this way can we prevent aggression from recurring in the future,” said Minister Budrys.

In his speech, the head of Lithuania's diplomacy expressed his gratitude to the Honorary Consuls for their contribution in representing Lithuania in the world.

The 9th assembly is attended by 145 Lithuanian honorary consuls . The event aims to familiarise consuls with the most important Lithuanian issues, government priorities, trends, and opportunities in various areas of our country. The Convention will also hold an exchange of views on the activities, experiences, and proposals of honorary consuls to achieve effective cooperation.

The first gathering of honorary consuls took place in Vilnius in 2001. In total, Lithuania has 233 Honorary Consuls in 97 countries around the world.