On May 12, Rukla, Minister of National Defence Arvydas Anušauskas met with Belgian counterpart Minister of Defence Ludivine Dedonder to discuss bilateral Lithuanian-Belgian cooperation on strengthening defence capabilities, the importance of NATO enhanced Forward Presence in the Baltic states and Poland, security situation in the region, and the growing threat from Russia.
“This meeting is an excellent opportunity to express our gratitude to Belgium for the formidable contribution to the security in the Baltic region,” said Minister A. Anušauskas. The Belgian contingent was among the first to deploy with the German-led NATO enhanced Forward Presence Battalion Battle Group in Rukla. Belgium was also the first NATO ally to deploy fighter jets to Šiauliai when the NATO Air Policing Mission in the Baltic states began in 2004.
To emphasize the importance of the NATO enhanced Forward Presence in the Baltic states and Poland Minister A. Anušauskas noted that the high readiness forces were the cornerstone element of deterrence and force combat readiness could only be ensured by stable presence. “The contribution of Belgium to the NATO enhanced Forward Presence Battalion Battle Group Lithuania is especially meaningful and we anticipate further contributions to the efforts to strengthen NATO deterrence and defence in the region,” says Minister of National Defence A. Anušauskas.
“I would like to thank Lithuania and Lithuanian Defence forces for their warm welcome of our Belgian Military personnel. Our two countries understand the current global evolutions and the importance of our NATO and European presence here in Lithuania. Belgian Defence is proud to be one of the reliable partners contributing to the Enhanced Forward Presence,” said Minister of Defence of Belgium L. Dedonder.
When addressing the threats coming from Russia, A. Anušauskas highlighted the fact that the security situation was not improving and there remained tensions on the Ukrainian borders as well. “Russia is seeking to continue increasing its sway in the region, therefore we are seeking an efficient and swift NATO force reinforcement, as well as deployment and integration of air defence elements in the early stages of a crisis or conflict,” Minister said.
Minister also stated he believed that the NATO Leaders meeting in June will solidify decisions on continuing the deterrence and defence adaptation process and strengthening the collective defence of the Alliance.
Minister of defence were accompanied by Chief of Defence of Lithuania Lt Gen Valdemaras Rupšys and Chief of Defence of Belgium Admiral Michel Hofman on their visit in Rukla.
The Belgian Minister of Defence and Chief of Defence met with Belgian military personnel deployed to Rukla, viewed their service conditions and equipment. Approx. 200 Belgian troops are currently serving here in Lithuania.
Aside from the Belgian contingent, the NATO eFP Battalion Battle Group deployed in Lithuania since 2017 is formed military personnel of Germany, Netherlands, Norway, Czech Republic, and Luxembourg.
