Lithuanian PM discusses Ukraine support, regional security in Munich

VILNIUS – Lithuanian Prime Minister Ingrida Simonyte discussed cooperation with the German State of Bavaria, support for Ukraine, and regional security in Munich on Thursday.

During her two-day visit, Simonyte met with Prime Minister of Bavaria Markus Soder, President of the Christian Democratic Union of Germany Friedrich Merz, representatives of think tanks and experts, as well as business representatives, the government said in a press release.

The Lithuanian prime minister and Soder discussed cooperation between Lithuania and Bavaria, the security situation in the region, support for Ukraine, bilateral relations between Lithuania and Germany and their development in the fields of economy, security and culture.

"Russia's war continues to cause suffering and destruction in Ukraine and instability in the region, but our ability as allies to react, agree and work together for common security is a positive sign of Lithuania's strong relationship with Germany. Here in Bavaria, we see great potential to further increase our cooperation ranging from financial services and culture to industry and high-tech sectors," the press release quoted Simonyte as saying.

The meeting focused on security in the region and Germany's contribution thereto.

According to Simonyte, Germany's decision to deploy a permanent brigade in Lithuania is important for the security of NATO's eastern flank and the Alliance as a whole.

She added that Lithuania will continue to develop the necessary infrastructure and will ensure that all conditions are in place to implement this agreement as soon as possible.

According to the press release, Bavaria is important for innovation-oriented Lithuanian exporters, traditional sectors, life sciences and laser industry.

Lithuania-Germany relations are expected to be further strengthened, inter alia, by the opening of a consulate general in Munich, the capital of Bavaria, by the end of this year.

Simonyte also met with representatives of German businesses and discussed opportunities for investment and business development in Lithuania.

Germany is one of Lithuania's main trade and security partners.

Berlin has been leading the NATO International Allied Battalion deployed in the country since 2017 and is planning to deploy a brigade of troops in Lithuania.