The Ministry of National Defence (MoD) proposes political-military advice to initiate the process of withdrawal from the Ottawa Convention, starting with consultations with Allies and the Baltic Sea countries. The advocated step would strengthen national defence and deterrence.
The MoD invites to begin with a debate on the withdrawal from the Ottawa Convention in the State Defence Council in order to secure a wide political consensus. It is also necessary to consult with key Allies contributing military personnel to Lithuania, such as the United States, Germany and other members of NATO. It would facilitate decisions that correspond to regional and international defence interests.
“An effective result needs a united stance of the Allies on withdrawing from the anti-personnel mine ban convention. We are intensely at work mobilizing leadership for a regional decision,” says Minister of National Defence Dovilė Šakalienė.
A united position of Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, Poland, Finland and Sweden would enhance deterrence and demonstrate a unanimous view on the principles of defence in the region.
“Lithuania’s withdrawal from the Ottawa Treaty would send a clear and strong message to the internal and international audience that Lithuania is prepared to protect its territory with whatever means available. Of course, even if the Ottawa Convention is denounced, Lithuania would still uphold the principles and norms of the international humanitarian law protecting civilians and defining methods of warfare,” Minister of National Defence says.
Approval at the State Defence Council will be followed by presentation to the President (by MoD initiative or by proposal of the Government of the Republic of Lithuania) so that he submits the proposal to denounce the Ottawa Convention to the Seimas.