Lithuania's PM-designate seeks active role in EU budget talks

VILNIUS - Lithuania's Prime Minister-designate Mindaugas Sinkevicius has named Brussels as one of his first foreign destinations, saying he wants to take a more active part in negotiations on the European Union's next long-term budget.

Sinkevicius said he hoped to reach an agreement with President Gitanas Nauseda on representation at the European Council. While acknowledging that the president effectively represents national interests, Sinkevicius argued that the European Union's multi-annual financial framework is a critical issue that will directly affect Lithuania.

Last week, Sinkevicius said he intended to attend certain European Council meetings, noting that he had specific input on the new financial perspective, as the European Commission's initial proposals do not meet Lithuania's requirements.

Acting Prime Minister Inga Ruginiene previously said she was capable of attending European Council sessions but wanted to avoid creating tensions between the government and the presidency over the issue.