Budrys: Lithuania’s development cooperation – an investment in regional stability and national security

On 28 October, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Kęstutis Budrys, opened the annual Development Cooperation Conference RE:VIVE 2025. High-level policy makers, decision-makers, experts, and international partners discussed how Lithuania could contribute more effectively to solving global challenges, strengthen international partnerships, and update development cooperation models in response to contemporary geopolitical realities.

"As the world changes, we need to reassess the contribution of development cooperation through foreign projects and partnerships. The experience of Ukraine shows how much we can achieve by working together. By implementing targeted activities in the neighborhood, we contribute to our own security and prosperity", said the Minister.

Budrys emphasized that development cooperation is an integral part of Lithuania's foreign policy, contributing to strengthening democracy, building resilience, and ensuring regional and national security.

The participants of the conference agreed that Lithuania's consistent contribution to development cooperation strengthens the country's international standing, contributes to regional stability, and expresses solidarity with partners around the world.

According to preliminary data, Lithuania's Official Development Assistance (ODA) in 2024 amounted to 0.24% GDP or €179 million, of which €85 million was allocated to bilateral assistance and €94 million to multilateral assistance. Most of the support - around 60% - was allocated to Ukraine, which clearly reflects Lithuania's political commitment.

Lithuania's development cooperation system is currently undergoing a fundamental transformation. Following the implementation of the 2022-2025 strategic directions, work has started on a new strategic document, which will enter into force as of 2026 and will allow for an even better targeting of Lithuania's efforts and resources.