Budrys: A strong transatlantic bond, support for Ukraine, and the preservation of the rules-based international order are among Lithuania’s foreign policy priorities

On 17 February, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Lithuania, Kęstutis Budrys, met with the heads of diplomatic missions of foreign countries accredited to Lithuania. During the traditional annual meeting, Lithuania's foreign policy priorities were presented, and the situation in the Baltic Sea region, Europe, and the global arena was reviewed.The Minister answered the Ambassadors' questions on current foreign policy issues.

According to the head of Lithuania's diplomacy, ensuring security is a long-term interest that guides Lithuania's foreign policy efforts.

"Russia's aggression is not only a war against Ukraine, but also a systemic attempt to dismantle the European security architecture. Therefore, support for Ukraine, a strong transatlantic bond, and the use of sanctions, international isolation, and pressure to deter Russia, are among the key priorities of Lithuania's foreign policy," said Budrys.

At the meeting, the Minister emphasized the United States' role as the security guarantor for Europe and Lithuania. According to Budrys, NATO unity is the Alliance's core collective strength and the most reliable deterrent. It is therefore essential for Europe to take greater responsibility for its defence in order to maintain it. According to the Minister, it is also necessary to strengthen the dialogue with the United States on ensuring economic security and supply chains for critical raw materials.

Preserving an international order based on the UN Charter and international law is another priority of Lithuania's foreign policy, which will be given special attention and the country's diplomatic efforts this year.

Budrys also emphasized that this year, Lithuania will continue to seek to strengthen its diplomatic engagement in the Indo-Pacific, Latin America, and Africa. In line with the new 2026-2030 international partnership strategies, Lithuania will continue implementing its development cooperation programmes in the areas of resilience building, environmental sustainability, social protection, and education in more than 20 countries.
Lithuania currently has 65 diplomatic representations in the world and is ready to work actively with partner countries in all regions, building resilience, sustainability, and shared prosperity.