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At the meeting of Ministers of Foreign Affairs of the European Union in Luxembourg on 24 June, Linas Linkevičius, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Lithuania, stressed the importance to come to an agreement concerning future of the Eastern Partnership initiative, which could be discussed by members of Vilnius Summit. “What we need is a consistent vision on the Eastern Partnership post 2013. The future strategy is expected to encompass components as political association, economic integration of the Eastern partners, as well as common values, e.g. rule of law and democracy. We must further ensure regular communication and offer more for greater efforts seeking reforms”, Linkevičius said.

The Foreign Affairs Council has seen discussions by the ministers on the readiness for the Eastern Partnership Summit in Vilnius, scheduled on 28-29 November. Mr Linkevičius stressed that the preparation process must see full involvement of the Eastern partners; they also have to be provided with further incentives to carry on the reforms.

“It is my wish to congratulate Moldova on its recent conclusion of technical negotiations on the Association and the free trade agreement. We believe Armenia and Georgia shall follow; however, it is our wish that Georgia comes to an agreement regarding peaceful coexistence with opposition, as this is of paramount importance. We must urge Ukraine to carry on with the reforms, especially in the three key areas, where tangible results are to be accomplished, including election process, reforms of law enforcement, and selective justice”, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Lithuania stressed.

Linkevičius urged everyone to work hard to see the Association and the free trade agreement with Ukraine signed in Vilnius, and respective agreements with Armenia, Georgia and Moldova initialled.

During the discussion by the ministers of the situation in Afghanistan, Linkevičius pointed out that Lithuania supports further involvement of NATO and the European Union; he also urged both organisations to closely cooperate in view of current challenges. The Minister reminded that in September Lithuania shall hand over responsibility for Ghor Province to Afghan authorities. The Minister pointed out, however, that Lithuania shall still render aid of development cooperation.