Rytis Martikonis Appointed New Head of European Commission Representation in Lithuania

Rytis Martikonis has been appointed as the new head of the European Commission's representation in Lithuania, taking over from M. Vaščega, whose four-year and four-month tenure concluded on June 30.

Martikonis possesses extensive experience in European affairs, spanning over three decades. His background includes significant roles in diplomatic leadership and strategic communication at a high level. Prior to this appointment, he served as a special advisor on democratic resilience for the European Commission's Directorate-General for Communication from March 1 to June 30 of this year.

His career within the European Commission also includes serving as the chairman of the Regulatory Scrutiny Board from 2022 to 2026 and as the Director-General for Translation from 2012 to 2022. Before joining the Commission in 2011, Martikonis held prominent positions representing Lithuania in European affairs.

From 2005 to 2010, he was Lithuania's permanent representative to the EU. He also participated as a member of the Convention on the Future of Europe from 2002 to 2003 and served as Lithuania's Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and chief negotiator for Lithuania's EU membership from 2001 to 2004.

The European Commission's representation in Lithuania is responsible for informing the public and media about the Commission's activities, organizing events, reporting on developments in Lithuania to the Commission, and coordinating visits by Commissioners and officials. The office currently employs 18 staff members, along with students from Lithuanian and foreign universities undertaking internships.