Social democrats and Democrats for Lithuania discuss coalition, some proposals have a budget cost

Coalition talks between Lithuania’s Social Democratic Party and the Democrats for Lithuania have begun, with the two sides discussing policy priorities and potential government roles, LRT reports.

Mindaugas Sinkevičius, leader of the Social Democrats, said after the first round of negotiations that while there were no fundamental disagreements, some of the Democrats’ proposals would require public funding. “Some proposals have a price, a budget cost, which would mean spending taxpayers’ money through the budget,” he stated.

The discussions focused on two main areas, with 90% of the time dedicated to policy issues that could unite the parties. The Democrats presented proposals for a potential coalition agreement and programme, outlining their priorities and desired changes.

Sinkevičius noted that no specific ministerial positions were discussed, but the conversation included the roles and responsibilities the Democrats for Lithuania might take on. He confirmed that the Democrats have ambitions to be more visible in the government and that adjustments to their parliamentary quotas could be part of the negotiations.

Virginijus Sinkevičius, acting chair of the Democrats for Lithuania, acknowledged the need to review and calculate the feasibility of proposals, emphasising that the budget is not flexible. “We understand that the budget is not rubber, and funding sources are necessary,” he said.

The Social Democrats have committed to presenting the results of the negotiations within two weeks. Sinkevičius expressed hope for significant progress by the end of the week, while Virginijus Sinkevičius stressed that any final decisions would require approval from the parties’ memberships.

Further talks involving all three potential coalition partners—the Social Democrats, Democrats for Lithuania, and the Lithuanian Farmers and Greens Union—are scheduled for Thursday.