Lithuanian and Norwegian foreign ministers discuss solidarity amidst region’s security challenges

At the meeting with Foreign Minister of Norway Borge Brende, Linas Linkevičius stressed that Norway was an important partner for Lithuania, providing energy alternatives and seeking for reliable security guarantees in the region. The minister said the two countries had cooperated well implementing the liquefied natural gas terminal project in Klaipėda, and the partnership would continue.

Both ministers underscored that security situation in the region was complicated, thus requiring unity and solidarity.

“It is crucial that Norway joined the EU and the US sanctions against Russia, because we can reach the desired effect by being united. We must also stand together in our support to Ukraine,” said the head of Lithuanian diplomacy.

Linkevičius thanked Norway for its participation in the NATO Air Policing Mission – its air force has patrolled the Baltic skies twice already and intends to return next year. According to Linkevičius, Norway is a very important trade partner and investor for Lithuania.

At the meeting with Minister for the European Union and the European Economic Area, Vidar Helgesen, the foreign minister highlighted Norway’s contribution to the reduction of social and economic exclusion in the member states of the European Economic Area.

“In the light of Russian sanctions, trade between the EU and Norway gains an even greater role. Therefore, it is important to continue negotiation on further market opening. This would be beneficial to producers and consumers in both the EU countries and Norway,” said Linkevičius.

With the would-be General Secretary of NATO, Jens Stoltenberg, the foreign minister discussed the results of the NATO Summit in Wales that took place earlier this month.

“Decisions made in Wales are crucial, but now we have to work responsibly and coordinate our actions seeking for their smooth implementation,” stated Linkevičius.

The newly appointed head of NATO said that the reliability of the Alliance depends on how decisions taken in the Summit will be implemented. Linkevičius invited Stoltenberg to visit Lithuania as soon as possible.