Lithuanian minister, EU justice commissioner discuss upcoming EU presidency

VILNIUS - Lithuanian Justice Minister Rita Tamasuniene met European Commissioner for Democracy, Justice and the Rule of Law Michael McGrath in Luxembourg on Friday to discuss Lithuania’s upcoming European Union Council presidency.

The ministry said the meeting focused on preparations for Lithuania's 2027 presidency.

Tamasuniene said that during its term Lithuania will prioritise criminal law and historical memory. The minister emphasised that Russia's attempts to rewrite European history must be met with a coordinated European response.

She also advocated the establishment of a pan-European memorial for victims of totalitarian regimes in Brussels, noting that the project would require European Union funding.

Tamasuniene stressed the importance of supporting Ukraine and ensuring Russian accountability for international crimes. She urged European Union member states to finalise national processes needed to establish a special tribunal for the crime of aggression against Ukraine and a compensation mechanism for damages.

The minister also said European Commission rule-of-law reports and recommendations are vital for strengthening judicial independence. According to Tamasuniene, Lithuania is already implementing most recommendations, particularly regarding transparency in judicial appointments and state-guaranteed legal aid.

During her visit to Luxembourg, Tamasuniene is also scheduled to attend the European Union Justice and Home Affairs Council and meet her counterparts from Estonia and Latvia.