The President met with Roberta Metsola: Lithuania and the European Parliament share the goal of a secure, united, and strong Europe

President Gitanas Nausėda met with Roberta Metsola, President of the European Parliament, who is visiting Lithuania on the occasion of February 16th, State Restoration Day. The meeting focused on strengthening European security, support for Ukraine, European Union enlargement, and future EU agenda priorities.

Gitanas Nausėda emphasized that the participation of the President of the European Parliament in the celebrations is an important sign of solidarity and respect for Lithuania: "Lithuania and the European Parliament share the goal of a secure, united, and strong Europe."

The discussion also addressed Lithuania's Presidency of the Council of the European Union in the first half of 2027. President Gitanas Nausėda highlighted that Lithuania's priorities will include strengthening security and defense, providing comprehensive support for Ukraine, advancing EU enlargement, promoting competitiveness and innovation, and ensuring democratic resilience and social stability.

Speaking on EU enlargement, the Head of State stressed that Ukraine's integration into the European Union is a strategic decision for the future and security of Europe. He noted the need to maintain the pace of negotiations and political determination so that Ukraine becomes a full member of the EU by 2030 at the latest. He also underlined the importance of Ukraine and Moldova advancing together on the path to membership.

The meeting also addressed the hybrid attacks faced by Lithuania and other EU Member States. The President of Lithuania stressed that the European Union needs to remain united and consistent in its response to destabilizing actions and expressed his gratitude to the European Parliament for its recent resolution on the issue.

The leaders also discussed the multiannual financial framework for 2028-2034. President Gitanas Nausėda emphasized the need to ensure that the European budget aligns with ambitions in security, competitiveness, and cohesion. He underscored that the eastern border of the European Union is a responsibility shared by all of Europe, and that this has to be reflected in financial decisions concerning the EU's eastern regions.

The discussion further highlighted the importance of strengthening historical memory. Gitanas Nausėda noted that the memorial to the victims of totalitarian regimes in Brussels is a joint European project-a tribute to the victims and a clear message that Europe is guided by an understanding of historical experience. He thanked the European Parliament and its President for their support for this initiative.