Finance minister candidates were Vaitiekūnas, Šadžius and Valys

Lithuania’s designated prime minister Mindaugas Sinkevičius has revealed that three candidates were considered for the position of finance minister: Taurimas Valys, Kristupas Vaitiekūnas and Rimantas Šadžius, LRT reports.

Speaking on a 15min portal show on Thursday, Sinkevičius said he had to choose between several options, including whether Vaitiekūnas could continue in the role, as well as considering Šadžius and Valys.

“I had to choose for myself—I am the party leader, I know the people, I chose from those who are known in the community, who have distinguished themselves, who act, whose proactivity is visible,” Sinkevičius said.

He confirmed that he personally selected Valys, while Inga Ruginienė had chosen Vaitiekūnas. Sinkevičius emphasised that Valys has a strong background in foreign affairs.

Following Valys’ meeting with the conservative faction on Tuesday, where he reportedly felt examined, Sinkevičius said he called the minister and advised him to act more solidly and “not go on the defensive.”

“I think he may not yet be accustomed to the political genre, since he comes from diplomacy, where diplomatic language is more familiar to him. Here, political opponents are sharp, including the former prime minister and former finance minister—they have questions, they have things to say, and they make political assessments,” Sinkevičius said.

He added that Valys would adapt, noting that real examinations would come later, such as during budget discussions in parliament.

Sinkevičius described the finance minister’s responsibility as balancing “desires and possibilities”—state budget revenues and expenditures—while maintaining fiscal discipline. He expressed confidence that Valys would manage this role, with results visible soon.

“The main task will be evident in his work results. The budget is already being prepared, and it will likely reach the Seimas by the end of October. Then it will probably be returned to the government, and through this work and the budget, his true competence and ability will be seen,” Sinkevičius said.

Last week, Sinkevičius presented his candidate list for ministers. He also announced that the new government would prioritise strengthening national defence, stressing that Lithuania must be strong, prepared, and reliable amid the current conditions of war in Europe.

President Gitanas Nausėda signed a decree on Monday confirming the composition of the 21st government. The ruling coalition consists of the Lithuanian Social Democratic Party, the Democrats’ Union “For Lithuania,” and the Lithuanian Farmers, Greens, and Christian Families Union factions in the Seimas.