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On 26 February Lithuanian Minister of Foreign Affairs Petras Vaitiekūnas took part in the presentation of study “Guidelines for Lithuania’s European Short and Middle Term Policy Strategies” by the Centre for Strategic Studies.

“This fundamental study is characterised by the in-depth analysis of the European Union processes, unique outlook on basic EU integration dilemmas and innovative suggestions. I hope that this study shall generate a wider discussion in the Lithuanian academic society and among the EU practitioners and give a new impetus to our EU policy”, said Minister of Foreign Affairs P. Vaitiekūnas.

In his speech on Lithuania’s role in the EU, the Minister outlined our country’s substantial economic progress. However, the Minister remarked that it was essential to improve competitiveness, encourage progress in science and technology, carry on with reforms and create knowledge economy in order to contribute to building a stronger Europe.

“Only strong and united Europe can meet new challenges, guarantee economic and social welfare, and ensure security of its citizens and countries. The more united and stronger Europe will be, the better Lithuania’s interests will be represented in the world”, the Head of Lithuanian Diplomacy noted.

The study “Guidelines for Lithuania’s European Short and Middle Term Policy Strategies” prepared by the Centre for Strategic Studies is an attempt to systematically and coherently present dilemmas of Lithuanian EU membership and formulate principles of action in the EU. The study seeks to define an optimal European policy model for Lithuania, set forth Lithuanian positions and identify reality of Lithuanian interest realisation in the EU.

Lithuanian EU membership has provided new possibilities of influencing the EU political process. Therefore, the study assesses opportunities to shift Lithuanian national interests upwards to the EU level. The study is expected to constitute a standard of value, which alleviates the formulation of more coherent and effective Lithuanian European policy.

The study was presented by the director of Centre for Strategic Studies associate professor Dr Egidijus Motieka. Comments were provided by the Undersecretary of Lithuanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs Žygimantas Pavilionis, the Chairman of Committee on European Affairs Andrius Kubilius, professor in the Institute of International Relations and Political Sciences habilitated doctor Jonas Čičinskas and lecturer Darius Žeruolis, Minister Plenipotentiary, Deputy Permanent Representative to the EU Romas Švedas, Head of the Representation of the European Commission in Lithuania Kęstutis Sadauskas, members of the Seimas Antanas Valionis and Petras Auštrevičius.

Members of the Seimas, Presidential advisors, representatives from the Government Office, the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Economy, the Ministry of Transport and Communications, the Ministry of Agriculture, political scientists and others participated in the discussion.

The study was carried out upon the order of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and  the Ministry of National Defence.