Lithuania, Netherlands sign deal on classified information exchange

VILNIUS - Lithuania and the Netherlands signed an agreement on Thursday on the exchange and mutual protection of classified information.

According to the Ministry of National Defence, the pact will enable the secure exchange of classified information between the defence ministries and other responsible institutions of the two countries. It also establishes procedures for the protection and transmission of information and the investigation of security breaches.

The ministry said the agreement was the result of successful negotiations between the national security authorities of Lithuania and the Netherlands. The talks were characterised by cooperation, transparency and mutual respect, reflecting both countries’ commitment to strengthening European defence cooperation.

Beyond the direct benefits of secure information sharing, the ministry said the agreement creates a legal and procedural framework for institutional cooperation.

It also sets the stage for closer cooperation on future defence programmes, joint projects and strategic initiatives.

The Netherlands is one of the largest contributors to the NATO Multinational Battlegroup in Lithuania. The country also supports Lithuania’s defence through participation in the NATO Force Integration Unit, the deployment of Patriot air and missile defence systems, and cooperation in the procurement of weapons and military equipment.