Vice Minister of National Defence Karolis Aleksa met with a delegation of the United States House of Representatives, Congressmen Keith Self, Timothy Kennedy and Derek Tran, who were conducting a visit to Lithuania.
Vice Minister underscored the importance of U.S. military presence in Lithuania and the whole region for effective deterrence and collective defence, stressed that the U.S. remained the cornerstone guarantor of security in our region and Lithuania was prepared to host more U.S. forces.
“We are grateful for the unwavering support of the U.S. Congress to the Baltic states. The U.S. security assistance combined with our own defence investment advances our capability-building, interoperability and stronger deterrence and defence of the eastern flank,” Vice Minister said.
In their turn, the U.S. Congressional delegation thanked Lithuania for the effort and contribution in the search and recovery operation in Pabradė and the tribute paid to the deceased U.S. servicemembers. The U.S. representatives pointed out Lithuania as a role model to other countries in terms of approach to defence, speeding in the area and capability development.
K. Aleksa expressed his sincere condolences over the accident that claimed the U.S. servicemembers’ lives and stressed that the tragic event in Pabradė had highlighted the unbreakable bond between the two countries.
They also discussed assistance to Ukraine. Vice Minister pointed out the strong commitment to further consistently support Ukraine in bilateral and multilateral formats. He briefed the guests on the assistance rendered and planned.
The Lithuanian and U.S. representatives also discussed preparations for the upcoming NATO Summit in The Hague, security situation in the region and prospects of further strengthening of the Lithuanian-U.S partnership.
Photo credits: A.Pliadis / MoD
