Sinkevičius spoke with Turkish President

Lithuanian Prime Minister Mindaugas Sinkevičius held a phone conversation with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, focusing on bolstering bilateral political and economic ties, with a particular emphasis on defense and the defense industry. The discussion also encompassed cooperation within NATO, the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, the relationship between the European Union and Turkey, and the security situation in the Middle East.

Sinkevičius expressed gratitude for Turkey's significant contributions to NATO's deterrence and defense, including its participation in the Baltic Air Policing mission. He underscored Turkey's crucial role and growing influence as a key NATO ally. "Lithuania values Turkey as an important NATO ally and partner," Sinkevičius stated. "The security challenges facing NATO's eastern and southern flanks are increasingly interconnected, so we have a strong basis to further strengthen our countries' cooperation."

The Lithuanian leader highlighted his country's interest in closer collaboration with Turkey in the defense industry, aiming to develop specific joint initiatives. They also explored the substantial potential for expanding bilateral economic relations. Following the second meeting of the Lithuanian-Turkish Joint Economic and Trade Commission in Istanbul in May, Lithuania expressed readiness to host the next session in 2027. Opportunities for cooperation were identified in life sciences, lasers, semiconductors, artificial intelligence, financial technologies, and research and innovation.

Regarding the war in Ukraine, Sinkevičius stressed the necessity of continued support for Ukraine and increased pressure on Russia to achieve a just and sustainable peace in Europe. He thanked Turkey for its diplomatic efforts concerning Ukraine and its contributions to peace and stability. Sinkevičius also noted that Lithuania, during its presidency of the Council of the European Union in 2027, would aim to foster closer EU-Turkey cooperation. With the 100th anniversary of bilateral relations approaching in 2030, Lithuania proposed using the occasion to intensify cultural, educational, and diplomatic ties. Both leaders agreed to maintain close dialogue and strengthen cooperation within both bilateral frameworks and NATO.