On June 10 Minister of National Defence Arvydas Anušauskas discussed Lithuania’s defence policy priorities with Chief Executive of the European Defence Agency (EDA) Jiří Šedivý on a visit in Lithuania.
“We are subjected to dramatic trials that concern the security of the whole Europe as Russia is attempting to redraw its borders and break the unity of NATO and the EU, as well as engages in such activities in Ukraine that constitute a genocide case,” said Minister A. Anušauskas at the meeting.
Minister underscored the importance of defence investment for EU member states during this time, because the long-term Russian threat requires a corresponding adaptation of the European defence architecture and ensuring the vital defence capabilities. According to A. Anušauskas, efforts must be joined to ensure a wider network and scope across Europe for defence industry.
J. Šedivý also met with Vice Minister V. Semeška for a discussion on the priorities of Lithuanian Armed Forces modernization and projects underway. The importance of speedy implementation of the projects was underscored in the context of the threat environment and weaponry donations to Ukraine. J. Šedivý assured of EDA’s readiness to provide mediation in order to facilitate cooperation between countries as they developed and procured the required capabilities and proposed to apply additional VAT exemptions as an incentive for the procurements countries carried out through EDA.
“Lithuania is prepared to fully avail of the opportunities provide by EDA so that we can have upgraded defenses as soon as possible,” stressed V. Semeška.
V. Semeška and J. Šedivý also agreed the EU defence industry capacity needed to be stepped up.
This is the first J. Šedivý’s visit to Lithuania in the capacity of EDA Chief Executive which he assumed in May 2020. EDA Chief Executives visit all 26 member states to familiarize with their defence leadership and priorities.
The European Defence Agency is the only intergovernmental institution in the EU where representatives of member states’ defence systems ( ministerial and military experts) take part in the decision making on the development of military capabilities and weaponry, standards, military mobility, defence acquisitions, defence research ad industry. EDA also has a direct role in evaluation of implementation of the Permanent Structure Cooperation (PESCO).
Photo credit: Sgt SPc 1st Class L. Tamošiūnas
