First tensions arise as Valys and Šimonytė clash over budget plans

Proposed finance minister Taurimas Valys and former prime minister Ingrida Šimonytė engaged in a sharp exchange during a meeting with conservative lawmakers, as reported by LRT.

Valys, nominated for the finance minister post, stated he would not allow anyone to “humiliate” him, expressing surprise at the opposition’s questions. The main point of contention was how the government would fund its promises. Valys asserted that economic growth would provide the necessary resources, while Šimonytė argued there was no basis for exceptional growth.

During the heated discussion, Šimonytė pressed Valys on the source of additional funding for next year, questioning whether he understood the budget’s revenue streams. Valys responded by listing taxes, borrowing, and other measures as sources, before retorting, “What do you mean, I don’t know? Do you know?”

Gintarė Skaistė, a conservative MP, previously estimated that fulfilling the government’s pledges would require an additional €2 billion annually. Valys later criticised the conservatives’ tone, stating he would not tolerate unjustified disrespect, particularly from an opposition party he accused of not being invested in the government’s success.

Šimonytė defended the questioning, stating that public officials must answer difficult questions, even if they seem unfair. She added that the queries were relevant to Valys’ prospective role.

Valys also addressed President Gitanas Nausėda’s proposal to temporarily apply a zero VAT rate for parents raising two or more children, calling it “worth considering” but deflecting on funding: “Where will the money come from? I have to rush to another meeting, so I’ll go.”

Valys was later expected to meet with the liberal faction but failed to appear. Mindaugas Sinkevičius’ team reportedly did not inform him of the meeting. Current finance minister Kristupas Vaitiekūnas said the budget needs would depend on the scale of implemented promises, noting that tax incentives for reinvestment could vary in scope.

Meanwhile, incoming health minister Linas Kukuraitis faced his own scrutiny, particularly on healthcare accessibility. He pledged to reduce patient waiting times by a third during his term, identifying it as a key priority.

The new government is set to take office next week, as the current cabinet, led by Inga Ruginienė, prepares for its final session.