Vice-Minister Mitkus at the meeting with the President of the European Parliament: The stronger the EU‘s eastern border, the safer the entire EU European UnionNews of the Ministry

On 11 March in Strasbourg, Vice-Minister of Foreign Affairs Sigitas Mitkus met with the President of the European Parliament, Roberta Metsola. The Vice-Minister and the President of the European Parliament discussed strengthening security and defence, as well as ensuring that the needs of the European Union's eastern border are properly reflected in the EU's Multiannual Financial Framework.

The Vice-Minister stressed that the EU's competitiveness was closely linked to security and stability.

"Investment and business development are possible where people feel safe. Therefore, the security and resilience needs of the eastern border states must be properly assessed in the EU budget programmes for strengthening cohesion, agricultural policy, internal security, and competitiveness," said Mitkus.

During the meeting with the President of the European Parliament, the Vice-Minister also addressed the priorities of Lithuania's preparations for the Presidency of the Council of the EU, issues related to EU enlargement, and the challenges facing EU competitiveness.

Mitkus thanked the EP for awarding the European Order of Merit to President Valdas Adamkus. This award is given to individuals who have made significant contributions to European integration or who have upheld and defended the values enshrined in the EU Treaties.