Lithuanian prime minister tells German chancellor strategic partnership proven by actions

Lithuanian Prime Minister Mindaugas Sinkevičius said in a phone call with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz that the strategic partnership between the two countries is demonstrated by concrete actions, not just declarations, LRT reports.

“Our countries’ strategic partnership is not just a declaration; our solidarity is not just words but real examples of productive cooperation, such as the German brigade in Lithuania,” Sinkevičius said. He assured that the government and he personally will prioritise the issue and seek to elevate Lithuania-Germany relations to an even higher level.

Germany is one of Lithuania’s key security partners. A German brigade is expected to be deployed in Lithuania by the end of 2027. The deployment, along with the creation of necessary infrastructure and support for the brigade, as well as strengthening strategic ties with Germany, are commitments outlined in the current government’s programme.

Sinkevičius will visit the Rūdninkai training ground on Friday, where military infrastructure for the brigade’s deployment is being developed.

“Lithuania-Germany relations are unique in Europe, strengthening both countries and the region. We highly value Germany’s contribution to ensuring Lithuania’s and NATO’s eastern flank security, as well as Germany’s leadership in Europe during this period of security challenges,” the prime minister said.

During the conversation, Sinkevičius and Merz also discussed the regional security situation, the importance of reinforcing critical infrastructure and the defence industry, further support for Ukraine, and pressure on Russia to achieve a stable and just peace in Europe.

Sinkevičius expressed his intention to make Germany the destination of his first official visit. This was the fourth phone call between the new Lithuanian prime minister and his foreign counterparts, following earlier conversations with the prime ministers of Estonia, Latvia, Sweden, and Poland.