Lithuania backs UK, France initiative on Strait of Hormuz navigation security

VILNIUS - Lithuania supports a UK and French initiative to take greater responsibility for ensuring freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, Foreign Minister Kestutis Budrys said on Tuesday.

Budrys said Lithuania supports diplomatic efforts to resolve tensions in the Middle East and prevent Iran from developing nuclear and missile programmes, while calling for active participation in international processes.

"Lithuania supports the UK and French initiative to take on greater responsibility in ensuring free navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. It is also our duty to contribute to these efforts, and we should remain open," Budrys said in Luxembourg.

Last week, France and the UK announced they would lead an international defensive mission to ensure freedom of navigation in the region, though the operation would only proceed following a broader peace agreement.