Border security and investment in civil protection as main topics of the Polish-Lithuanian talks
30.12.2024
On Monday, 30 December, Minister Tomasz Siemoniak met with Lithuanian Minister of the Interior Vladislav Kondratovič. The event was also attended by Deputy Minister Maciej Duszczyk and Commander-in-Chief of the Border Guard, Brigadier General Robert Bagan. The Polish-Lithuanian talks focused on the priorities of the Polish Presidency of the EU Council, as well as cooperation between the services of both countries – particularly in the area of border protection and countering illegal migration.
The ministers also discussed joint projects and investments in civil protection and the development of border regions.
As neighbours and allies, Poland and Lithuania work together closely on many levels. Cooperation in protecting the integrity of the borders with Belarus is particularly important. The meeting between Minister Tomasz Siemoniak and Minister Vladislav Kondratovič was the first one between these two ministers, following the swearing-in of the new government in Lithuania in December 2024.
Cooperation between Poland and Lithuania strengthens Europe's security
Our countries are experiencing hybrid operations from Belarus and Russia and, in particular, attempts to destabilise the external borders of the Schengen zone. Close cooperation, at every level, allows us to effectively counter and combat these threats.
Polish-Lithuanian relations are an example of effective cooperation. Our countries share common goals and values. We are neighbours, members of NATO and the EU. Poland and Lithuania are crucial for the security of the Alliance's eastern flank. Security cooperation is today the foundation of our relations and an important contribution to the stability of Europe
- said Minister Tomasz Siemoniak.
The head of the Ministry of the Interior and Administration stressed that Poland will begin its Presidency of the EU Council in two days' time. The priorities set by our country in the field of internal affairs are mainly migration and security, civil protection and defence as well as fighting and counteracting organised crime.
The priorities we have presented for the next six months are firmly in line with the expectations of the European Union Member States
- said Minister Tomasz Siemoniak.
The Polish-Lithuanian border connects our countries
The talks between the Polish and Lithuanian Ministers of the Interior also concerned investments in border areas, including in particular civil protection infrastructure and the improvement of road connections between our countries. For the development of this area, it is necessary to expand joint projects under EU programmes, as well as cooperation between services. This will translate into the safety of citizens and the coherent economic development of both countries' border areas.
