News

On 15 September, Vice-Minister of Foreign Affairs Sigitas Mitkus held a telephone conversation with Benjamin Haddad, France’s Minister Delegate for European Affairs. They discussed the Multiannual Financial Framework for 2028–2034, challenges facing the EU’s eastern flank, and other relevant issues.

Mitkus emphasized the need to agree on an ambitious EU budget that would help the Union prepare for future challenges and strengthen its resilience.

“We seek to ensure that the needs of all member states are adequately addressed in the future EU Multiannual Financial Framework, with a particular focus on the eastern border region. Only an ambitious EU budget will allow us to respond to the geopolitical challenges facing Europe adequately,” the Vice-Minister emphasised.

Speaking about current issues on the EU’s eastern flank, Mitkus emphasized the need to ensure the necessary support for this region and to continue strengthening the EU’s readiness to respond to emerging threats.

“The security of the EU’s eastern flank is the security of all of Europe, so we must act in unity. Lithuania continues to consistently increase its defense spending, thereby contributing to a safer Europe. The countries on the EU’s eastern flank need comprehensive support—we must strengthen the EU’s resilience, preparedness, and ability to respond effectively to emerging threats,” the Vice-Minister noted.