Lithuanian PM tells German chancellor strategic partnership goes beyond words

VILNIUS - Lithuanian Prime Minister Mindaugas Sinkevicius and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz discussed bilateral relations and strategic partnership during a telephone call on Thursday.

"The strategic partnership of our states is not just a declaration; our solidarity is not just words, but real examples of a productive partnership, such as the German brigade in Lithuania. I can assure you that the government and I personally will give priority attention to this issue and will strive to raise Lithuanian-German relations to an even higher level," Sinkevicius said.

Germany is one of Lithuania's most important security partners. A German brigade is expected to be deployed in Lithuania by the end of 2027, with the necessary infrastructure being developed and host nation support ensured. Sinkevicius will visit the Rudninkai training ground on Friday, where military infrastructure for the brigade's deployment is being built.

The prime minister emphasised Germany's contribution to ensuring the security of Lithuania and NATO's eastern flank, as well as its leadership in addressing European security challenges.

During the conversation, the leaders also discussed strengthening the resilience of critical infrastructure and the defence industry, further support for Ukraine, and increasing pressure on Russia to achieve a sustainable and just peace in Europe.