Lithuanian FM urges Europe, Southeast Asia to cut reliance on single energy suppliers

VILNIUS - Lithuanian Foreign Minister Kestutis Budrys said economic security is an integral part of national security and urged Europe and Southeast Asia to reduce reliance on single energy suppliers.

The minister made the remarks during a European Union and ASEAN meeting in Brunei, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said on Tuesday.

"Lithuania has learned from its own painful experience that dependence on a single external source can become a tool for political pressure. Both Europe and Southeast Asian countries must reduce vulnerability and strengthen strategic autonomy," Budrys said.

"We all feel the impact of recent global events, including tensions caused by Iran's actions, on energy markets and supply chains. Diversifying energy sources, increasing resilience and close cooperation between the EU and ASEAN is a common interest in conditions of growing interdependence," he added.

Lithuania's top diplomat delivered a national address at the high-level meeting, expressing support for the European Union's goal of elevating cooperation with ASEAN to a comprehensive strategic partnership.

According to the minister, Lithuania, which is preparing to hold the European Union Council presidency in the first half of 2027, intends to join the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia later this year. During its presidency, the country will focus on preparations for next year's EU-ASEAN summit.

Budrys said Lithuania would actively contribute to the implementation of the European Union's "Global Gateway" initiative in the ASEAN region.

He highlighted the synchronisation of the Baltic electricity grids as a successful example, suggesting Lithuania's experience could be useful in developing integration of the ASEAN regional power grid.

The minister also stressed the importance of preserving fundamental principles of international law in the face of global challenges.

"The European Union is a reliable and predictable partner that firmly adheres to the principles of international law. Lithuania's historical experience has clearly shown that aggression and violations of international law cannot be tolerated, which is why we continue to consistently support Ukraine in pursuit of a lasting peace in line with the United Nations Charter," Budrys said.

The meeting concluded with a joint European Union-ASEAN declaration expressing commitment to international law, strengthening inter-regional cooperation, increasing economic resilience and implementing projects for mutual progress.