Olekas dismisses opposition criticism of government program

Lithuanian Minister of National Defence, J. Olekas, has rejected criticism from the opposition regarding the new government's program, suggesting their complaints stem from political frustration. He stated that the current government is undertaking tasks that the opposition failed to complete, highlighting that necessary funds have been secured, including a significant allocation for defense.

"Perhaps it is painful for the opposition that they see these implemented tasks and are simply trying to divert attention to other areas," Olekas commented to journalists. He emphasized that the government's agenda extends beyond defense, focusing on solving demographic problems, fostering civic unity, and encouraging the economic participation of older citizens. This, he noted, makes the program distinctive for the 21st Government.

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Perhaps it is painful for the opposition that they see these implemented tasks and are simply trying to divert attention to other areas.

The newly proposed government program, submitted by designated Prime Minister M. Sinkevičius, outlines 14 priorities across 89 pages. Key initiatives include increasing child benefits, indexing pensions, and managing the impact of price increases by boosting incomes. The government also plans to ensure equal access to quality education, extend healthy life expectancy, and modernize transport infrastructure.

Furthermore, the program seeks to normalize diplomatic relations with China to the level of other EU states. It also reaffirms a commitment to pressuring the Minsk regime and increasing Belarus's isolation if it continues to support Russia's aggression in Ukraine or engages in hybrid attacks against the EU or Ukraine.

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This becomes a distinctive, at least in the written form, direction of the 21st Government, which I think is very clear.