Lithuanian foreign minister discusses Belarusian democratic forces with representatives

Lithuanian Foreign Minister Kęstutis Budrys met with representatives of Belarusian democratic forces, civil society, diaspora, independent media, education, business, and religious communities based in Lithuania to discuss their situation in the country, the Foreign Ministry reported on Friday.

The meeting reaffirmed Vilnius as a safe space for Belarusian community activities. Participants also addressed practical issues faced by organisations, including Schengen visa procedures, temporary residence permits, and the smoother integration of Belarusian citizens into Lithuanian society.

Budrys emphasised that all decisions are made with the continued commitment to support Belarusians while adhering to national laws, EU legislation, and national security requirements.

“We share a common goal—a democratic and free Belarus. The current authoritarian regime in Belarus poses a threat to Lithuania’s national security, as the country is a political and military ally of aggressor Russia. For this reason, it is essential to continue, at the EU level, the policy of non-recognition, isolation, and sanctions against the regime, while simultaneously strengthening support for Belarusian democratic forces and people,” Budrys said.

The meeting agreed to continue dialogue and cooperation to strengthen Belarusian civil society, educational initiatives, and resilience against disinformation and other common threats.

As of June 1, Migration Department data shows that 44,571 Belarusian citizens held temporary residence permits in Lithuania, while 4,100 had permanent residence permits.