- 2026-06-16 “But seeing the Negro box, we are not sure how we will be able to respond to the urgent, persistent hybrid threats when we see relevant legal provisions being deleted, watered down or formulated in a restrictive manner. Third, we are repeating the same mistakes while recognizing security and defense as one of top priorities. The updated Negro box proposes cuts of -4% in defense. Window in competitiveness fund and connecting Europe. Facility. Few words on agriculture. I just I would like to remind you that the level of direct payments in Lithuania accounts only 79% of EU average. My last point is on revenue side. And of course the Commission's proposal on own resources cannot simply be accepted in its entirety. But of course we can't. Ignore the proposals and we are ready to to consider all the proposals that we received from the Commission and from other EU member States. Um, from our side and from the beginning of the negotiations, Lithuania continues to advocate for a bigger budget and is ready to contribute more in finding a proper solutions how to finance, uh, the challenges that we are facing all in, in our neighbourhood and globally. Thank you very much.”
Size of EU budget
- 2026-06-16 “31:43 – 16:32:46): Thank you. Thank you, Marilana. And I would like to use, an opportunity to speak a a less thanian. Yes. I want to thank the partners of the incoming trio, Alexandra and Thomas, for their constructive cooperation in the preparation of the program. Special thanks go to the council secretariat for their sincere and professional assistance in harmonizing the text.
I'd like to thank my team for their professional work and diligent work. What matters most is that the trio partners were able to elaborate the main orientations of the strategic agenda in the light of today's realities.
And we have come up with a truly balanced text, what you citizens expect from us, security, strong economy, and upholding democratic values. Lithuania stands ready to work together to achieve the ambitious goals and targets set out in the program. Thank you so much.”
EU political integration
- 2026-06-16 “Thank you. Marilena and I will continue in Lithuanian. Uh. First of all, I would like to thank the Cyprus presidency and especially you, Marilena, for all the hard and consistent work while drafting three partial general approaches and seeking compromises on the GnRH regulation. We have several remarks, and of course, we want to thank you, Marilena, for amending the priority on security and defence and including elements that are of great importance to Lithuania, such as defence infrastructure, hybrid threats, civil protection, military mobility corridors and missing links, and also more funding options for military infrastructure. We can support partial general approach, but we will have a national statement on CAP, since the main elements of CAP of its structure of implementation and also its continuity in national plans. All these elements have not been coordinated yet and they are not protected yet on the European Competitiveness Fund. We can support what is being proposed, but I would like to draw your attention to the fact that the Baltic states, together with Poland, have prepared a declaration which reflects also what our terms has just mentioned. Now, as for Global Europe regulation, we. We welcome Cyprus efforts. We thank you for a good compromise and we are ready to continue. Works Together with the presidency, with Ireland as well. We are ready to cooperate and to achieve the best result possible. Thank you.”
Defence spending
- 2026-06-16 “Thank you. Thank you for your presentation. And of course, thank you presidency for submitting a revised Knickerbox. Dear Marilena, you described your books as a balanced one. However, we feel that our voice was lost in in this balancing exercise. Uh, and some works, um, work is still to be done. Uh, a few comments from my side. Uh, first on the eastern border, uh, from the first day of negotiations, we have been signaling that eastern border regions is are facing a fundamentally new reality shaped by real and persistent security threats. The future MFF must be equipped to respond to this reality. Otherwise it will fail to remain fit for purpose. Uh, our regions, uh, bear additional, uh, economic security, social burden. Uh, and, um, just recently we updated our figures, how much money would we need to to invest into proper protection of our national critical infrastructure. And, and we, um, have come up with a figure of €1.1 billion needed to invest into our protection of energy, health, education, transportation infrastructure. Second, um, hybrid threats have become our new reality. The commission calls. Its MFF proposal a modern and equipped with tools to respond to new challenges and urgent needs.”
Cohesion and rural funding
- “The importance of the ecosystems of pollinators is evident, but we have [00:09:00] to first understand where they are most affected and why. Sadly, we don't have the exhaustive long term data on the EU level. Yes, an extensive monitoring system is needed, but it has to be compatible with the CAP framework and not impose a major burden. We need to build on existing indicators rather than develop new ones. We need greater consistency and coherence among policies. Yes, agriculture must contribute to the protection of pollinators. [00:09:30] This includes the proper use of peas. But Lithuania is seriously concerned about the impact of the proposed changes in the regulation on peas. In particular, the reduction targets on sensitive areas seem rather unrealistic. So we want to hear from the Commission on the additional Impact assessment to make sound decisions. Thank you.”
Nature protection and restoration in the EU
- “Good afternoon, Commissioner Chair. We would like to thank the presidency for its consistent, coherent work for really making sure that this compromise text is coherent due to Agora EU. Thank you very much that you took into account important issues for Lithuania and they are in the specified provisions.
It is also important that fair competition is also very important, which is a major precondition for better participation and true European added value. We are also positive about the fact that we have European historical heritage concept, also the challenges of artificial intelligence, also management of the program, clearer administration provisions are also included, national contact point networks and the comitology procedure.
We are in favor of the partial common approach, and we do hope that in the future negotiations, this balanced approach will be upheld, and we will ensure that the program is efficient and responds to the needs of member states and priorities. Thank you.”
EU and national cultural identities
- “Thank you. Luis. Uh, Commission on farmers need stability and predictability of support and a fair return for [00:26:30] their extra efforts during the Cap reform, the Commission stressed the importance of simplification. The preparation for the implementation of the first year have been challenging. The templates for the plants, the high level of detail required, and the complex and flexible and time consuming procedure for modification prevent us from cutting the administrative burden. Technical matters should be the competence of the Member States and national rules, and only the strategic elements should be set out. [00:27:00] In the plants. The definition of gig standards in the basic regulation is very concise, which at first sight seems to give more freedom to the Member States to implement the gig requirements according to their national specificities. However, when you try to adopt the strategic plan and attempt to amend it, you are faced with a different reality. More attention should have been paid to the national specificities, geographical and social differences. One [00:27:30] such example is the Commission's proposal to apply crop rotation to maize areas because of plant diseases. But such diseases don't even exist in Lithuania, and the timing of sowing is, uh, when the soil is frozen in Lithuania. Another example is the garlic. One requirement not to reduce the area of permanent grassland by more than 5%, but these areas are no longer considered as agricultural land because of afforestation.
This indirectly changes [00:28:00] the structure of farms and young farmers. When taking over and not wanting to continue. Livestock farming are limited in their options and often abandon farming altogether. As a result, there are many more effective ways to cut greenhouse gas emissions than conserving grassland on the organic schemes. The excessive setting of various dates and consequent needs to change them leads to lengthy coordination procedures with the commission, which has [00:28:30] prevented us to react rapidly to extreme climate conditions this year. Any requirement that goes against the laws of nature causes justified complaints from farmers and in the long run, builds up the ranks of Eurosceptics on the external convergence. For more than 20 years now, Lithuania has had the lowest average level of direct payments in the EU. This shows the deep exclusion and the lack of fair competition. It shows that farmers in Lithuania and [00:29:00] other similar countries are considered less deserving of direct support than farmers in the rest of the EU, even though the commitments, the conditions for support were and remain the same, and all the farmers are obliged to achieve the same common cap goals. Therefore, we unequivocally support the Slovak initiative and advocate for the full convergence in the new Cap period, that is, to reach a level of direct payments at least equal to the EU average as [00:29:30] from 2028. Thank you.”
Direct payments to farmers (pillar 1)
- “Thank you, Mr. Chair. Dear Commissioner, Lithuania welcomes the Commission's proposal on ECF. If designed well, the fund can be an ambitious tool to modernize our single market and strengthen Europe's global position. I would like to underline a few elements first. Consolidation which matters. Bringing financing and the one fund and one rulebook can make access simpler and faster. Too often companies, especially SMEs, face a jungle of programs, each with different rules. A single fund can cut red tape, reduce uncertainty and give businesses and investors the clarity they need. Second, inclusiveness is key for smaller member states like Lithuania. Access is not automatic. Our companies often compete with fewer resources when applying for EU funds to ensure a level playing field. The fund must include proportionate mechanisms such as simplified calls for SMEs or geographically balanced envelopes, so no member state is left behind. Third, we must not forget geopolitical realities. Competitiveness today is inseparable from security for Lithuania and other eastern border countries. Threats are not theoretical. We face hybrid attacks, cyber intrusions and energy supply disruptions. The fund should dedicate resources to resilience projects in border regions, cyber security centres, dual use infrastructure, stronger logistics chains for the defence, Digital and space sectors deserve priority. Europe cannot remain competitive if it neglects industries that underpin both security and innovation. Closer cooperation between civil and military research, for example linking Lithuania cyber security expertise with EU defence innovation will help us stay ahead. And finally, predictability matters to mobilise private capital. Rules must be clear from the start and remain stable throughout implementation. Bureaucracy must be minimised throughout digital, digital one stop shops and lighter reporting for SMEs. Thank you very much.”
"Buy European" provisions
- “Madam chairman, colleagues, Lithuania shares the concerns expressed by France regarding the impact of disinformation on the health sector, which poses a threat to public health, especially in the areas of infectious diseases and mental health. We are confronted with widespread disinformation on a daily basis, especially regarding the safety and effectiveness of vaccines. It should be noted that the use of artificial intelligence is becoming increasingly widespread, making it increasingly difficult for the public to identify reliable and evidence based information in the media. Against this background, a coordinated EU approach and initiatives are needed to tackle this health threat, which is as dangerous as the pandemic.”
Vaccination
- “Thank you. Chair. Commissioner. Yes. We support our Polish colleagues proposal as the implementation of the Green Deal and its requirements. Indeed, as a significant number of additional obligations for farmers. Although we support the goals of the Green Deal and the digitalisation of the process, we believe that the two year transition period for the implementation is too short. It is necessary to properly assess various aspects, such as the implementation of information systems and the compatibility of practical functionality, so that the farmers are fully prepared to provide all the necessary information about the plant protection products used. Sufficient time must be provided for farmers also to become familiar with the new requirements and to train them. Filling out the electronic journal or logbook. Otherwise incomplete or poorly submitted data will not reflect the true situation. We propose to postpone the entry into force of this regulation to January 28th. Thank you.”
Digital and precision farming
- “So thank you, dear colleagues. So let me start with the obvious challenge for all energy intensive sectors. So affordable energy. We need swift implementation of the Affordable Energy Action Plan and sectorial action plans, with regular cross checks. Between those plans to bring prices down, we should expand generation capacity, accelerate cross-border interconnections, complete energy market and provide targeted support to energy intensive industries. Coming from a country where heavy industry accounts for 14% of GDP. I'm convinced that Europe's steel and metal sectors are and will remain strategically important. The European Steel and Metals Action Plan is the right response to the challenges the sector faces. But timing matters. Implementation must be swift and timely to address shortages of primary raw materials and limited recycling capacity. We need to strengthen recycling infrastructure and promote raw material recovery within the European Union. Also, I would like to add a few words on chemistry industry. Eu regulations must remain proportionate, simple, Predictable and science based. The union should continue supporting clean and low carbon technologies, ensure fair access to finance and strengthen circularity. Stimulating demand for sustainable products, for example through green public procurement, is equally important. Finally, the European automotive sector is important, reinforcing the European supply chains for critical components including batteries and semiconductors, reducing administrative burden and boosting demand, and create the right conditions for investment, innovation and scaling up production in Europe. At the same time, we must safeguard fair competition with the help of trade instruments and support the transition to clean and connected mobility. So thank you for your attention.”
Energy (green transition)
- “Chairman. [00:01:30] Commissioner. Colleagues, I'd like to thank the presidency for this timely discussion, and I can only agree that advanced materials and related research and innovation are important for the economic security and competitiveness. At the outset, let me confirm that Lithuania supports the four priority areas identified by the Commission, that is energy, mobility, construction and [00:02:00] electronics, and that Lithuania contributes to their development by implementing smart specialisation priorities. At the start of this year, Lithuania launched three mission oriented programmes that is innovation for health smart and Climate Neutral Lithuania and Safe and Inclusive E-society. Science and businesses have come together in consortia in three competence centres based on themes of the missions to develop innovative products and services. [00:02:30] Now there's another important national initiative that I am pleased to share with you that is the development of semiconductor based chip ecosystems. This new ecosystem will encompass not only science and businesses, but education that is, integrate the knowledge triangle. We're making every effort to ensure that participants in the national chip ecosystem will successfully, successfully participate in the creation of national Chip competence Centres and join the European [00:03:00] Chip Competence Centres. It. We would like to thank the Commission for the open discussion on the use of dual technologies. That is also important in this area. I'd like to stress that in order to improve the coordination of research and innovation of advanced materials, and to fully exploit the potential of the EU, it is important to combine in a smart way strategic planning, open [00:03:30] coordination method and co-creation processes. There are three important elements there. First, we must make a more efficient use of existing advisory and decision making structures rather than create new ones. Second, we must create better conditions for the involvement of Member States in the initial stages of Horizon Europe strategic strategic planning, including the selection of European partnerships and third, Lithuania calls for increasing compatibility [00:04:00] and synergies among the various EU funds. Thank you for your attention.”
EU-level coordination of research agendas
- “Thank you very much, Mr. Chair. Madam Commissioner, dear colleagues, let me start by underlining that Lithuania is fully committed to a strong and ambitious framework program that should strengthen Europe's scientific excellence, competitiveness and resilience. However, we believe that to achieve this ambition, the challenge today is not a political will that apparently is present at the table, but the need for greater strategic and operational clarity. After months of negotiations, we agree on the main pillars and the principles, but the fundamental elements remain unclear. And this is why we as Lithuania, we co-signed the AOB poetries by our Spanish colleagues, and we agreed that we need a well-articulated strategic priority setting mechanism coupled with a clear governance structure, particularly in relation to EKF. Furthermore, we need clarity on how we will ensure future proof European partnerships and as incubators for emerging technologies, how we will demonstrate the added value of the new investment model in research and technology infrastructures. How the program will address the concerns raised previously by the Member States regarding dual use by default, while also preserving cooperation with associated countries, and also how we will ensure the effectiveness of the package and its potential to address the long standing innovation gap. We appreciate to hear the Commission's position regarding urgency insufficient clarity on these aspects. Neither delivers simplification nor strengthens Member States flexibility, and this uncertainty then, does not remain in Brussels to ensure smooth and effective implementation of the programme from day one. We will need to align our national programmes, our national systems with the programme to have a true multiplier effect. We need to plan synergies of our with our financial instruments. Our International agencies may need to adapt in a timely manner so that we all can benefit in the future. To sum up, we appreciate the Commission's commitment and we hope that with the efforts of all the Member States around the table, our ambition will be underpinned by a credible and workable implementation. As Lithuania, we stay fully committed to a constructive, speedy debate. Thank you.”
EU-level coordination of research agendas
- “Dear colleagues, Lithuania welcomes the Industrial Accelerator Act as a timely step to strengthen EU industry, speed up decarbonisation and reduce dependencies while boosting demand for low carbon and EU made products. Its success, however, will depend on practical and flexible implementation. Member states must have enough flexibility taking into account differences in industrial capacities, energy conditions and dependencies on supply chains. Lithuania welcomes proposed common baseline permit for industrial projects in industrial accelerating acceleration areas. This could contribute to faster and clearer investment procedures and in turn, attract domestic and foreign investors to reduce administrative burden. Implementation should rely on standard templates, digital tools and better links between existing systems and databases. A high energy prices continue to negatively affect our companies. Therefore, alongside regulatory measures, we need faster development of clean energy infrastructure. Electricity grids and more integrated energy market. The proposed measures should also be supported by sufficient EU financing, especially under the future Multiannual Financial Framework. The needs and capacities of SMEs and smaller Member States should properly considered Lithuania's East European preference and low carbon criterion in public procurement as potentially useful tool to support strategic sectors and expand clean manufacturing capacities in European Union. However, the European preference principle should be applied only in clearly defined strategic sectors, remain in line with EU rules and international commitments and avoid fragmenting the single market. We must also ensure that the new public procurement framework supports SMEs and gives fair opportunities to regional suppliers, including companies from the Baltic and Central and Eastern Europe. Thank you.”
"Buy European" provisions
- “04:36 – 10:06:57): Thank you, mister chairman. Commissioner, colleagues, let me, 1st of all, thank the commissioner for the proposal and the president, for listening to the member state arguments and taking them into account. This is a very important proposal. And together with the rest of EU automotive package, it can significantly contribute to reducing our dependency on fossil fuels and thus on Russia.
Lithuania supports the EU climate change reduction targets and the initiatives needed to achieve them. We have an ambitious objective of reducing oil fuels consumption by 39% by 2030 compared to 2021 with the corresponding reduction in CO2 emissions. We are heavily investing in renewable energy sources and in the development of alternative fuels infrastructure. Encouraging the demand for clean vehicles is therefore important and very relevant.
I believe the regulation must act as a catalyst for market change and not as a collection of bans. We need tools not to force, but to encourage companies to opt for 0 emission cars, simply making polluting models less economically attractive. Member states can and must take the lead in promoting the development of 0 emission cars. Member states are free to set their own objectives and choose the means to achieve them. For example, promoting secondhand electric vehicles, thus increasing the use of clean transport for the socially sensitive. Using tax incentives or financial instruments that best correspond to their national budgetary capacities, dovetailing the promotion of supply with the development of alternative fuels infrastructure nationally.
I have no doubt that these problems can be solved, especially if we focus on a uniform methodology for reporting on targets. We have reportedly stated that the information required from the member states is neither comparable nor easily accessible. This hampers cross country comparison of progress and creates additional administrative burden for both administrations and businesses. Etruria will continue to engage constructively in the discussions and contribute to achieving a win win agreement for everyone. Thank you.”
Road transport environmental policy
- “Madam chair. Commissioner, um, we thank Romania for this question and we support it. We are also concerned about the deteriorating situation in the Pigmeat sector. Pork purchase prices are also falling in Lithuania. The situation is exacerbated by the tariffs imposed by China on pork imports from the EU. We ask the Commissioner and its services to closely monitor the situation in this sector if necessary. Immediate action must be taken at EU level, including the activation of the EU Agricultural Reserve. Thank you.”
Export of EU agri-food products
- “First of all, let me to congratulate new Commissioner. Once again, I feel that the first Council is the most memorable. Speaking from my personal experience, I try to be very brief since so many good words on this compromise was already said. The proposal presents a significant advancement in road safety, ensuring accountability for serious infringements. We appreciate the text's flexibility, allowing diverse national systems to adapt effectively during implementation. On this basis, we are ready to support this general approach. Thank you very much.”
Road transport environmental policy
- “President. Commissioner. Colleagues. I'm grateful to the Commission for these initiatives, seeking to fight unfair trading practices and to strengthen the position of farmers in the food supply chain. This is a priority for us, so you can count on our active involvement in the discussions at political level and at expert level. I should note that a number of provisions concerning written contracts that feature in the CMO regulation already exist in Lithuanian national legislation, so we support the commission proposal seeking to improve the situation of farmers. But we would like to have even more stringent provisions to achieve our objectives. This concerns the prices of foodstuffs. The imbalance of power is very common in the food chain. Very often the seller is the weaker party in the contract. They lack bargaining power, and this is particularly the case when it comes to the sale of perishable products. Usually the farmer is obliged to accept the prices proposed by the buyer who which in some cases doesn't even cover the cost of production. When there are prolonged periods where the prices don't cover the costs, farmers are forced to abandon their activity, which of course reduces production and threatens food security. Therefore, in order to ensure that there is a fairer distribution of the profits throughout the supply chain, we should consider including in the proposal a provision stating that the buying price must not be below the cost of production. And as regards the mediation mechanism, the obligatory mediation, we think it's unnecessary. We actually think this would create more of an administrative burden than any real benefit. However, we could accept that this be left to the discretion of Member States to implement. To conclude, the fight against unfair trading practices requires closer cooperation between the control and enforcement authorities, and we need closer and more effective coordination between Member States. The provisions of the regulation must be comprehensive and clear in order to ensure effective implementation. Thank you, Prime Minister.”
EU policy on farmer–buyer relations in the agri-food supply chain
- “(17:27:54 – 17:31:05): So definitely, we see and we have a lot of concern about how things are developing because of drones which now came into Romania. Before that, we saw drones in Poland. We saw drones in Baltic states. Commission president immediately decided to go to the Baltic States to show solidarity and to discuss how we can join our efforts in order really to build defense drone defense in our systems in in the countries what we call Eastern Flank Watch countries or Eastern Flank countries or frontier countries.
And we as commission, we are really ready to support member states in development of the defense capabilities through some regional projects. For example, Eastern Flank Watch, which is our flagship project and which now, I hope, very soon will be approved as a European defense project of common interest. So it will have, you know, some kind of very important political, legal, and financial status.
The same is with so called flagship project drone defense initiative, which as you know, is is also the project which which is targeted towards development of European drone defense capabilities. Very important is that in those projects, Ukraine can participate as equal partner. And definitely, is very important for us is to take Ukrainian experience as some kind of basic basic principles, how we can strengthen our own defense capability starting from detection of drones and also developing some cost effective means to destroy drones.
So that is in our agenda. But most important, really, would be to achieve, that the war should end with a just peace, you know, for Ukraine. And in in in in from that point of view, I see really that our support Ukraine in order for Ukraine to become a strong even in its defense. We're now providing 60,000,000,000 loan for Ukraine to develop its defense capabilities.
We need to look, for for next steps in order for Ukraine to start to prevail on the different front lines. On the ground with deep strikes, with defense of their cities, air defense of their cities in order really to finally to achieve that, you know, Russian authorities also will understand to continue that to continue the war and to create all the problems, not only on tragic, you know, developments, not only in Ukraine, but also around is really not what what was there should continue. Okay. Thank you. 1 more question.”
Russia-Ukraine conflict (10th term)
- “Thank you Markus. In general, we fully support the overarching goals of removing barriers to cross-border capital market activities and increasing supervisory efficiency, reducing administrative burden and simplifying financial market regulation. While we are open to the to discussing improvements to the supervisory framework, we remain cautious about the broad, broad centralisation of supervision. Any new supervision supervisory mandates granted to ESMA must demonstrate clear added value and contribute to a genuinely more efficient and harmonised EU level framework. Suggestions to include small financial entities like crypto asset service providers or small central securities depositories into the scope of central supervision would not adhere to these principles and would also raise proportionality. Questions on governance. We believe that the balance between the powers of the new Executive Board and the Board of Supervisors is not right. National competent authorities should be more involved in the decision making process by providing the Board of Supervisors with adequate mandate. National competent authorities have accumulated extensive experience and possess the deepest understanding of their local markets and participants. Therefore, robust and structural cooperation between asthma and national competent authorities is absolutely essential. Thank you.”
Financial regulation
- “Madam, thank you very much, chair. We can see the outbreaks of FMD. Aren't just affecting the first countries where they appeared, but they affect all of us and require our constant attention. We need to step up security measures and take additional measures where necessary. Information sharing is key. We need to raise awareness amongst breeders and the industry as well as the public, and we also need an in-depth investigation into outbreaks. We hope that there will be strict measures adopted in this case. We thank everybody for their efforts to this end. Thank you so much.”
Animal diseases prevention and management in the EU
- “Dear chairman. Commissioner, colleagues. Lithuania appreciates the Danish presidency efforts to reach a general approach on European climate law amendment and regrets that the agreement is not feasible in the council today. Lithuania consistently supports the main objective of the proposal to set out the EU 2030 climate target on the path to climate neutrality by 2050, and welcomes the progress made at the same time. We see added value in clear European Council guidance on enabling conditions and flexibility measures, including a legislative roadmap, adequate and predictable financing and socially fair transition framework. On flexibility measures. Lithuania stresses the need to stronger underlying the multiple objectives of the agriculture and land use sectors to ensure coherence between the EU's food security and climate objectives. The limited mitigation potential of agriculture sector and variability of lulucf sinks must be acknowledged by determining the possible contribution of these sectors towards climate targets. Regarding international credits credits flexibility, greater clarity is needed on equal access to this flexibility for all Member states, given that not all participate in implementation of those market measures on enabling conditions, we welcome progress made in accommodating our priorities and sensitivities in the compromise text of the European Climate Regulation, but we hope to further strengthen the provisions with the following elements. First, the architecture of sectoral targets and effort sharing between the Member States, reflecting national circumstances and historical greenhouse gas emissions reductions. We seek stronger balance on solidarity, and we are very skeptic to the calls to strengthen target convergence geographically. Second, geographically balanced EU funding and accessibility of innovative technology technologies across member states. And the third, a clear reference to measures and instruments to address socio economic challenges. We invite the Commission to provide impact assessment for individual Member States in due course, and we are waiting for solutions for the ETS two price stabilisation at the same time. We hope that the European Council guidelines on enabling conditions and flexibility measures, along with all our collective efforts, will allow us to approve equally ambitious EU 2040 target and socially just and economically viable structure for its implementation. Thank you.”
Energy (green transition)
- “Dear chairman, Commissioner and colleagues, Lithuania appreciates the efforts of the Danish presidency and welcomes the latest compromise proposal aligned with the European Council guidelines in the text of the European Climate Law Amendment. We support the improvements in the text related to finance impact assessment across Member States and the balance of effort sharing between Member States based on solidarity and cost efficiency. We are happy to see that national circumstances the supply of affordable clean energy, reflection of realistic contribution of carbon removals, food safety and farmer specificities are now reflected in the text. At the same time, we regret that our suggestions to strengthen the provisions of the European Climate Law Amendment were not reflected in the final compromise. In particular, we would have liked to see a clear reference to the EU measures to address socio economic challenges and ensure social acceptance after 2032, when the Social Climate Fund expires. And of course, stronger guarantees for the availability and affordability of innovative technologies and financial resources in all member States. Ensuring the principle of geographical balance. We also want to emphasize the multiple objectives of the agriculture and land use sectors, given their limited mitigation potential and exposure to natural disturbances, and the importance to ensure coherence between the EU's food security and climate objectives. Lithuania is ready to support the general approach of the European climate law. However, we will submit a national statement to the minutes to the Council outlining the enabling conditions most relevant for Lithuania. Thank you.”
Energy (green transition)
- “Thank you, Madam Chair. And thank you very much for this discussion. First, we would like to stress that it is necessary to ensure the implementation of the fit for 55 package. The priority should be given to the decarbonisation of the energy sector, the reduction of fossil fuel and energy security in ensuring competitive and stable energy prices. It is important to simplify legal regulation and optimise permit issuing for strategic objects in the energy, transport, infrastructure and other sectors. It is equally important to simplify reporting and standardise compliance processes and digital platforms. More investment is needed into the deployment of innovative technologies in all sectors of the economy for them to be able to afford them. For the Member States to have an equal access to innovation support funds, we must avoid fragmentation of the internal market and to aim to create an EU funding mechanism as one of the opportunities for small member States to participate in large scale projects as equal partners or competitors. Equally, it is important to reform state aid rules and expand green public procurement to preserve the EU's industrial competitiveness. In our opinion, it is paramount to strengthen the EU's strategic autonomy in preserving an open economy to ensure self-sufficiency of critical raw materials, have circular use of materials, build industrial value chains and expand the carbon border adjustment mechanism in energy intensive industries. It is important to use technological sinks to account for emissions in the EU ETS. Finally, I would like to underscore that for Lithuania to be able to support an ambitious EU 2040 climate target, it is important to ensure at least the current financing for the climate targets after 2030 and carry out an impact assessment at member states level. Public support will be a particularly sensitive aspect for ensuring a just transition. It is paramount to have a social climate fund based compensation mechanism for the socio economic repercussions.”
Energy (green transition)
- “Thank you, Lithuania fully supports the need to safeguard the competitiveness of EU industry, as we continue the path towards decarbonisation and deepening of the integration of the common energy market. As highlighted in Draghi's report, it is critical to ensure sufficient and affordable energy supply for both industry and consumers at globally competitive prices. We agree that a large scale electrification must accompany decarbonisation efforts as we as the demand for electricity will significantly increase. We should put more focus on developing dispatchable electricity generation capacity alongside renewables while also seeking to maintain the industrial competitiveness. Europe requires reliable energy supply at predictable and affordable prices. We also agree that expanding and strengthening energy network is crucial. We support long term, holistic approach to the grid planning that evaluates infrastructure, generation, storage, and other key system elements to ensure the most efficient allocation of investment across the EU. In this context, Connecting Europe Facility, which was an absolute success budget of this facility dedicated for the energy sector should inevitably increase. And it is, as it is noted in both letters and Draghi's report. Another important element in terms of infrastructure is physical and cyber security. The ongoing war in Ukraine has shown that the energy sector is a strategic target and the current geopolitical situation ensuring the security of energy infrastructure should be a priority, particularly in the regions along the EU borders, to enhance the attractiveness of our energy market for foreign investors. Thank you.”
Energy (green transition)
- “Thank you. Uh, dear Commissioner, dear colleagues, we would like to thank the Danish presidency for its significant efforts to reach a final agreement on proposal. Lithuania views this proposal as highly important and significant in the current geopolitical situation. Increased funding for the development of cross-border infrastructure, investments in military mobility projects, and the strengthening of energy security are Lithuania's key priorities in the negotiations. The compromise text Contains many elements that reflect these priorities in the energy sector. Positive aspects include the elimination of interconnections. Bottlenecks. Enhanced system flexibility and storage, benefiting cross-border renewable energy projects, and importantly, safeguarding the central role of projects of common interest in the transport sector. We welcome the inclusion of Rail Baltica in the annex and notably the compromise text. Clear focus on military mobility corridors as already highlighted during the negotiations. Amendments were included to strengthen the provisions on protection of Critical infrastructure. Lithuania welcomes these improvements and looks forward to further strengthening critical energy infrastructure elements during the trilogue negotiations, including the establishment of a separate objective dedicated to the protection of critical energy infrastructure. Giving the current security environment it is essential to significantly increase investments in the protection of our energy infrastructure against hybrid threats, supported by adequate and flexible CEF support opportunities. Required investments are relatively small compared with the potential costs of damage, as Commissioner also emphasized. Flagship energy projects are very important, so this connection between the CEF regulation and the ten E regulation is also of key relevance. In our view, the protection and resilience of critical energy infrastructure have a direct impact on cross-border energy flows. Therefore, this area should have a more prominent role in the new GCF. Thank you.”
Energy (green transition)
- “Thank you. President. Polish minister. Czeslaw. Commissioner. Colleagues. This issue is not new, but it is very relevant. We can recall that the long standing protection of the names of dairy dairy products has already been established. So it would be logical that the same requirements would be foreseen for other products of animal origin. In the market. Nowadays there is a wide variety of food products and especially with the increase in the supply of plant based products, this issue naturally arises again. This decision is important for farmers and producers, but also for consumers because of possible misleading. And while choosing the products, let us call food products by their proper names. Otherwise we. It was as if we were trying to legitimize fakes. It's very nice that we all are of the same opinion. Thank you.”
Food labelling harmonisation at EU level
- “We thank the chair and we thank Ireland for raising this important issue. In addition to being a significant coastal territory, the European Union is a key player in the management of mackerel stocks in the North East Atlantic. Industrial actions by third countries, the deliberate exclusion of the EU from the decision making process, and the disregard for key scientific advice raise serious concerns. The existence of unacceptable practices not only threatens the sustainability of the stock, but also contributes to further weakening of the EU's position in fisheries, especially in international formats. Despite the EU's economic weight in the market we contribute to. To calling on the Commission to take the decisive and timely action to prevent an unsustainable unilateral actions by third countries, to protect pelagic stocks in the North East Atlantic and to defend the interests of the EU fleet.”
Environmental regulation of fisheries
- “Ah, dear chair, dear Commissioner, dear colleagues, let me first mention that Lithuania welcomes the presidency's view on ensuring that Framework programme prioritizes the areas where only collective action can outperform national initiatives and where joint investment is critical to Europe's long term competitiveness. Secondly, we believe that the Commission has already proposed broad thematic priority areas, so-called policy windows for the European Competitiveness Fund and also for the pillar two of the framework Programme. And from our perspective, we can confirm that these windows are very well aligned with our National Smart Specialization Strategy, which includes three important pillars first, health technologies and biotechnologies. Second, new production processes, materials and technologies. And third, information and communication technologies. As to the priorities that may require substantial public and private investment, we can mention capital and risk intensive strategic technologies such as semiconductors, photonics, quantum technologies, industrial artificial intelligence, and also commercialization of deep tech. However, and this is my third point, we strongly believe that for these or any other areas that were mentioned around the table to become European level priorities and be selected for European Union funding, we need more efficient and transparent strategic priority setting system and the review of Horizon Europe strategic planning processes. If Europe wants to invest strategically, our political choices must be guided by scientific evidence and robust foresight. And to make this happen, we offer the use of mechanisms that already exist and are currently revised or can be adapted. Here we suggest, as also the colleagues from Austria, that the proposed steering mechanism for the next, including the Competitiveness Coordination tool, might support a more coherent top down alignment of priorities. And we are looking forward to the promised communication on that. And also, we believe that ESC Scientific Council and also EIC board could offer invaluable perspectives on emerging research and technological trends relevant for policymaking. And last but not least, we are looking forward for further discussion in Cyprus Cypress on on the proposal and would like to also thank the Danish presidency for the progress that is made in negotiations and and also the. Christina. Very happy birthday to you.”
Research priorities within the EU
- “Thank you. President. Commissioner. Colleagues. I have already mentioned today the special importance of the Baltic Sea fishery and its future for Lithuania. Many of the issues raised by the Swedish delegation are very relevant for Lithuania as well. These include the shortcomings in the implementation of environmental legislation, the damage caused by uncontrolled populations of cormorants and seals. Lithuania has consistently advocated a balanced approach of the CFP, combining environmental, economic and social objectives. We are in favour of the rational application of scientific advice and the need to give Baltic fish as a brake. We consider the caution proposed by Sweden to be excessive, and we therefore invite you to seek a common approach in the goldfish format, which will be chaired by Sweden as of the 1st of July. We look forward to a meaningful and constructive dialogue, and as the Baltic fishing sector faces existential challenges, we call for unity and shared responsibility for the future of the region. This autumn, when discussing fishing opportunities, Lithuania calls for a strong unanimity of position that quotas should be set on the basis of sustainable fishing ranges established by science, and not on the basis of other interpretations. Thank you.”
Environmental regulation of fisheries
- “Thank you. Chair. The European Clean Industrial Deal is a bold and necessary ambition, but its success depends on bringing all sectors along, especially traditional industries like steel, cement and chemicals. These sectors face unique challenges in the green transition. Therefore, decarbonization targets must reflect what's technologically and financially feasible. We need realistic timelines and tailored transition pathways. We must protect European industry from unfair global competition. The carbon border adjustment mechanism is an important tool here, but it must be swiftly implemented and adapted to reflect real trade laws. Infrastructure will also be critical expanding the electricity grid, integrating renewables and encouraging clustering industrial activities through industrial symbiosis can reduce emissions and boost efficiency. Moreover, building a strong circular economy is equally important. We need a robust market for secondary raw materials supported by smart initiatives. Certification Systems and Advanced Biotechnologies to improve recycling and develop bio based alternatives globally. The race for clean industries on technologies like hydrogen and carbon capture are vital. Europe must invest now through initiatives like Repower, EU and hydrogen ready infrastructure. Repurposed LNG terminals and CO2 storage speed coordination and regulatory support are key. Finally, we cannot achieve any of this without public support in regions like Eastern Europe. Trust and understanding of new technologies that will shape the future of industry must be built. Because this transition isn't just about industry, it's about people and the future. Thank you.”
Energy (green transition)
- “(17:16:42 – 17:22:10): Thanks a lot, minister Damiano, dear colleagues. I would like, first of all, to thank minister very much for both for today's excellent meeting, but also for the remarkable progress under your leadership during Cyprus presidency on most important issues for space. And, well, there is no need perhaps to remind that space importance for our daily life and for our strategic perspective is difficult to over overestimate.
So today, as I said, we discussed really very important issues, and I will try to briefly run through what was most important. First of all, I would stress importance of discussions about European competitiveness fund, money for space in the next multi annual EU budget, next MFF. We are now in the final stretch of the negotiations on European competitiveness on the council side, and we're making great progress. Thanks a lot again for presidency. I I thank everyone and also member states for constructive atmosphere. And looking ahead, really, must maintain an ambitious budget for space and defense, which are strategic priorities for Europe.
Second, what we discussed, also very important topic, is European Space Act. We discussed progress on our proposed Space Act. And again, I would like to thank very much Cyprus presidency for good progress. As everybody knows, you use Space Act. It has a goal to protect against exponential increase of space debris, to protect space, to protect our infrastructures, and also to mobilize the European Union single market for space in order to avoid its fragmentation.
Today, we're focused on an essential aspect for such an EU space market, like mutual recognition of technical assessments, great which is great for space companies approval in 1 member. The state means approval in all based on trust. So the technical bodies that make these assessments really must be robust. We also discussed solution for dual use satellites for military and civilian use. And while I would like to expect that the council will consider a general approach to this Space Act still this year during Irish presence. But again, I would like to thank Cyprus presence.
Additional point, very important was and strategic point was policy debate on space for economic security. And again, thanks a lot to the presidency and for policy note on this topic. Our economy and prosperity really depend on space. Up to 10% of our GDP depends on space, And space will only become more important with the growth of the space economy. To protect our economy, we must protect also space. Our security depends on the dual use space economy.
We have many dual use initiatives that will protect our security. Galileo, with PRS, Iris Square, as observation governmental service. And we need definitely, to look how to protect our space assets against jamming and spoofing hybrid threats and physical attacks. And we must protect critical supply lines in order to develop our space infrastructure.
Again, this demands such a vision, such an ambition, to develop our space economy and and security of our infrastructure demands an ambitious MFR for defense and space. And we are at the start of a, of a really big developments in space, what I call space revolution. We need also security revolution and defense revolution.
In addition, also, I had a poll opportunity to present our proposal on EUSPA, the Union Agency for Space Services, that will give, our agency a clear legal base for the years ahead. We have possibility to discuss, those proposals. And, the director general of ESA of European Space Agency, Josef Asbacher, gave an important presentation on the East European resilience from space. The program which provides essential developments to ensure a smooth start for the next MFF and work to get towards Defense Readiness 2030 for space.
And I am, I really can enjoy that we have very good cooperation with European, Space Agency as commission. And we welcome the initiative presented by France to organize a space summit in September in Paris. Great and important initiative is a kind of ambition Europe needs now in space. And finally, we look forward to welcoming the Irish presidency of the EU starting in July. And I am absolutely sure that Irish presidency will be also as successful as Cyprus presidency, which again, I would like to thank very much for everything what you managed to achieve. Thank you, Commissioner. I think we are now ready to take the questions. Stefan?”
EU competences on space policy
- “Thank you very much, Mr. Chair. Madam Commissioner, dear colleagues, let me start by underlining that Lithuania is fully committed to a strong and ambitious framework program that should strengthen Europe's scientific excellence, competitiveness and resilience. However, we believe that to achieve this ambition, the challenge today is not a political will that apparently is present at the table, but the need for greater strategic and operational clarity. After months of negotiations, we agree on the main pillars and the principles, but the fundamental elements remain unclear. And this is why we as Lithuania, we co-signed the AOB poetries by our Spanish colleagues, and we agreed that we need a well-articulated strategic priority setting mechanism coupled with a clear governance structure, particularly in relation to EKF. Furthermore, we need clarity on how we will ensure future proof European partnerships and as incubators for emerging technologies, how we will demonstrate the added value of the new investment model in research and technology infrastructures. How the program will address the concerns raised previously by the Member States regarding dual use by default, while also preserving cooperation with associated countries, and also how we will ensure the effectiveness of the package and its potential to address the long standing innovation gap. We appreciate to hear the Commission's position regarding urgency insufficient clarity on these aspects. Neither delivers simplification nor strengthens Member States flexibility, and this uncertainty then, does not remain in Brussels to ensure smooth and effective implementation of the programme from day one. We will need to align our national programmes, our national systems with the programme to have a true multiplier effect. We need to plan synergies of our with our financial instruments. Our International agencies may need to adapt in a timely manner so that we all can benefit in the future. To sum up, we appreciate the Commission's commitment and we hope that with the efforts of all the Member States around the table, our ambition will be underpinned by a credible and workable implementation. As Lithuania, we stay fully committed to a constructive, speedy debate. Thank you.”
EU-level coordination of research agendas
- “08:46 – 16:11:11): Thank you thier thank you professor for your presentation dear colleagues in Lithuania we are working to balance competitiveness with social guarantees in digital labor markets by setting clear rules for human centered approach workers should know when ea are used and how this affects them privacy and occupational health and safety must be respected in every type of work.
We also invest in skills this is the best form of prevention from the exclusion of labor market at the same time ea itself can help us better and anticipate future skills needs and reduce mismatches.
The Lithuanian employment employment service has been using ai in its active labor market programs for a while and continues to develop it ai can make workplace safer especially for the high risk tasks but ai can raise stress too change is fast we need preventive health protection measures at work including meant mental health support and right to disconnect.
The Europe European semester can do even more with clear targeted country specific recommendations supported by eu funding we can drive real change this means ensure ensuring high quality public employment services that sport training needs yearly for the jobs most affected by ea strong social dialogue should go hand in hand with all reforms and adaptation which will ensure that productivity gains are shared fairly.
Our goal goal is simple make technological change work for people protect rights grow skills build trust and create quality jobs across Europe thank you”
European Semester (social dimension)
- “Mr. Chair. Commissioner. Colleagues. Lithuania, as a Baltic Sea nation, understands deeply the importance of preserving healthy marine ecosystems. They are an integral part of our identity, our cultural and economic heritage. The Baltic Sea faces complex and growing threats, from alarming biodiversity loss and eutrophication to climate change, as well as widespread plastic, microplastic and hazardous chemical residue pollution. Moreover, the Baltic Sea is a hotspot of dumped munitions left over from World War Two. Despite wide international recognition of the problem, coordination among the countries and affecting clean up actions are still lacking. Ensuring good environmental status of our seas and oceans requires close collaboration and a common approach. As the current chair of Helcom, Lithuania places great importance on regional cooperation around the Baltic Sea. However, these collective efforts are undermined by Russia, an aggressor country that does not respect any international obligations. As a result, the EU countries must mobilise even more to restore healthy marine ecosystems. To achieve that, we need the Marine Strategy Framework Directive that is updated that meets today's challenges. We must set clear, measurable targets and create common standards and evaluation criteria to ensure that the consistency among member states and regions. Second, to better address the impact of climate change, we need effective monitoring of rising sea levels and extreme weather events. Reducing the administrative burden is essential. This could be achieved by simplifying reporting using digital solutions and automating data submission. Clear guidelines could also improve coordination and reduce costs. Lastly, to implement the Ocean Pact vision, we must ensure policies across sectors such as fisheries, energy, agriculture and transport to align with the goals of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive. Applying an ecosystem based approach. Thank you.”
Water pollution
- “Madam president, commissioner, colleagues, in shaping our future work plan, we must once again think about the role of culture in today's world. In the long run, we are focused on building safe and sustainable world. So we cannot remain indifferent to today's threats and challenges, especially given the current geopolitical situation.
I will share our strategic directions that we are shaping from the Lithuanian perspective. We consider the cultural compass an important strategic guide for the discussion. And at the same time, we seek to develop it in a broader context. We see the need to consistently strengthen society's democratic resilience as well as the culture of values for and dialogue where culture can play a significant role, one that remains underdeveloped to this day.
Today, culture does not operate in isolation, but in a broad informational and digital space, which is becoming increasingly vulnerable in the face of disinformation, manipulation and distortion of historical memory. Therefore, cultural policy shall be closely linked to measures of protecting democracy, strengthening cultural institutions and spaces for freedom, creative expression and critical reflection.
We see potential to develop cooperation with the recently established European Center for Democratic Resilience with aim to integrate culture into the systems of democratic resilience. I will now turn to very important issue of crisis preparedness. In the context of crisis preparedness, we must strengthen cooperation among member states, pool our capabilities, address issues related to the protection of cultural heritage, also any other challenges. In this work, it is important to draw on Ukraine's example. Ukraine must remain at the center of our attention. We must remain, in solidarity and committed to the EU level response by increasing support to Ukraine in the areas of culture and cultural heritage protection.
Another important aspect in building a resilient Europe is that the contribution of the cultural and creative sectors is paramount to the competitiveness by fostering innovation, creativity based solutions in trying to strengthen sectors contribution to social cohesion and the ability to adapt to technological and global challenges.
In summary, I believe that it's important to maintain this productive balance between culture's contribution to Europe and Europe's contribution to culture, where culture while remaining an autonomous space and, for free creation simultaneously strengthens European societies and the European project itself.”
EU and national cultural identities
- “47:01 – 11:48:44): Thank you, mister chairman. I want to thank my Greek colleague, minister Konstantinos, for raising this important issue that affects us all. The European rail traffic management system faces serious challenges in its deployment and development. Constant changes, evolving standards and the complex procedures ensuring compatibility and interoperability between the different versions and components, to name but a few. The aim of continuous innovation and further improvement of the system is understandable, but we also need to strive for balanced and official practical solutions. ERTMS deployment is becoming particularly challenging for large scale projects such as Rail Baltica. Technical issues can be solved, but it takes time, and it makes the system more expensive. The same can be said about the requirements for rapid deployment of the new future railway mobile communication system, which is about to replace the currently widely used GSM R system. The rapid deployment of new technologies and complex technical solutions can also impact the security of the systems and traffic safety. Rail should not be expensive nor complex, and it must be safe. We call for the simplification of the ERTMS standards, which would cut the cost of technology deployment. We could also use the capabilities of the European Railway Agency where appropriate. Thank you.”
EU support of rail transport
- “Good. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Thank you to the presidency. Thank you for your efforts to discuss the future of [00:08:00] food, of agriculture and all other topics. Our discussions have shown that we need urgent solutions on further simplification of Cap, improving the food supply chain, and more flexibility on the implementation of the strategic plans, as well as on better crisis management, new technologies and more sustainable targets. Still, one issue remains we need to take into consideration all the measures and efforts made by the farmers [00:08:30] when looking for the alternative solutions for maintenance of permanent pastures. Thanks.”
Agriculture (green)
- “Dear Executive Vice President, dear chair, dear colleagues, in Lithuania, our main priorities remain the growth of income, strengthening social security and promoting a high value added investments. Therefore, in the draft budget for the next year, we have planned an increase in minimum monthly wage by 12% and old age pensions by almost 13%. We welcome the development of a new action plan for the European Pillar of Social Rights. We should prioritise the social dimension of the single market and the strengthening of social justice and cohesion in the context of technological progress, digitalisation, green transition and changing labour market in demographical context. Priority should be given to the quality jobs, skills, skills development of course. Reskilling and upskilling, lifelong learning, strengthening cross-sectoral policy coordination and involving social partners are also very essential. To ensure adequate support for vulnerable people, we need to invest in social protection and affordable housing. We therefore support future EU initiatives in these policy areas. However, we must avoid avoid increasing the administrative burden of Member States. Instead, we should focus on effective transposition and implementation of existing EU directives and implementation of Council recommendations. The pilot experience of implementing the analysis of social convergence raises questions for us about the added value, administrative burden, real time data and frequency of analysis should. Such analysis should be improved by enhancing methodology and process. Administrative data should be further improved and used to reflect the social situation more accurately. Social convergence is a long term process, so the annual identification and assessment of risk is not necessary. We propose conducting a deeper analysis every three years, ensuring that this process has maximum practical effect without compromising quality or creating additional administrative burden and complex interinstitutional cooperation. Thank you very much for your attention.”
European Semester (social dimension)
- “Thank you. Chair. And good morning to everybody. Dear colleagues. Commissioner. I would like to wish Poland all the very best and every success for your presidency. We understand the concerns of our colleagues on regarding the appearance of foot and mouth disease in Germany, and appreciate the efforts being deployed to avoid the spread of this disease. This has been a response, a rapid response and effective preventive measures. We hope that we will rapidly be able to clear up the source of the virus, which is currently still unknown. It's important to stop and eliminate this disease, which presents a risk for animals and has a negative impact on agriculture and the economy. The consequences on exports of animal products are extremely serious, which is why preparation for the eradication and the implementation and financing of biosecurity measures are all essential. Thank you very much.”
Animal diseases prevention and management in the EU
- “(17:32:08 – 17:34:24): As I said before, really, we see not only German, you know, initiative for to invest their money or to invest, for example, some countries are investing cohesion funds into development of space infrastructure. It's good that, you know, more money is coming into space. Never, you know, it will you know, we can I would say that space really is quite demanding for investment? And our plans, what we need to develop as strategic enablers for our defense and security really are big ones.
Question is know how then to guarantee that those systems which are developed both on European level as Iris Square or as observation governmental service, which we are building also, that they should be compatible, interoperable with national systems which countries are developing. That is an issue for all of us. ESA really is is good interlocutor to help member states and to help, you know, us as European Commission to find the best ways how, you know, those systems can be interoperable. And and that is, you know, what we shall continue to do.
And, definitely, you know, space significance and space services, governmental services significance for defense and security are becoming, you know, more and more important. So that is why it's natural that when member states are developing their defense capabilities, are look also are looking out to develop their specific space capabilities.
Now on I cannot comment, you know, on ideas which are proposed by by some countries, you know, how should we do with managing our fiscal, you know, regulations? Can we use national escape clause for some other issues? That is not for me to decide. It's, you know, there are commissioners who are responsible for that. So I would like to not to comment too much here.”
EU competences on space policy
- “Dear colleagues, thank you for the floor. This proposal is essential for effectively combating and prevention of sexual exploitation of children and achieving full EU harmonisation of these most dangerous offences in this area, and establishing effective investigation measures. On your questions now, on the first question, let me point out that the introduction of adequate limitation periods would be essential for the successful prosecution of child sexual offences, their effective investigation, and for ensuring the protection of the victim's interests. Limitation periods for crimes of sexual nature should strike the right balance between the effective investigation and the justice for the victim. For example, limitation period could start running not from the commission of the offence, but from the age of majority of the victim. However, the limitation periods should also take into account the principles of rationality and proportionality and follow the guidelines set out in the European Council. Conclusions on the future of the EU Criminal law. On your second question, we support the view that AI generated child sexual content should be considered as part of child sexual abuse material. Such criminal offence is extremely dangerous as AI can generate extremely large amounts of child sexual abuse images and videos in a short period of time. In our view, the availability of such material leads to sexual exploitation or even real abuse of children. In itself, the fact that material does not relate to genuine, but to AI generated images of children does not alter the hazardous nature of such crime and should not mitigate the punishment. Appropriate harmonisation of offences that use AI generated sexual exploitation material would both help the effective investigation and detection of such offences, as well as strengthen judicial cooperation. Thank you.”
- “Thank you, Stephanie, and thanks to the Danish Presidency, as well as all the previous presidencies, for their efforts to progress this important file. Extensive and difficult discussions on different levels have demonstrated the the need for a balance between EU long term environmental ambitions and the practical realities faced by Member States. In our view, the latest compromise text and the relevant transitional arrangements acknowledge the diversity of Member States economic, geographical and social circumstances provided flexibility. Flexibility ensures that all Member States can contribute effectively to the EU's environmental objectives without disproportionate challenges. And we can support this compromise, which we see as a careful, balanced and well crafted outcome of a discussion. Thank you.”
Agriculture (green)
- “Thank you. Chairman. Commissioner. Colleagues. Ministers. I thank France for raising this important issue. We joined the member States, which encouraged the European Commission to launch an impact assessment later this year with a view to a comprehensive revision of the European regulation on. Maximum residue limits in plant protection products regarding imports from third countries. Well, we actually keep to very high standards when we produce, uh, the PPE. And other countries don't keep to that. That's why it's very important, uh, that regulatory inconsistencies need to be removed as this is important for human health and the environment and the EU competitiveness. Thank you.”
Maximum residue levels
- “They could be set nationally. In addition, the rules need to be simplified and made uniform for changes to strategic plans. Whatever pillar of the Cap is concerned by such a modification. Green ambitions should not harm agricultural production and food security. A balance is necessary, and I think that the requirements of EC norms one, two, six and seven should be examined. For example, flexibility and exemptions should be necessary when it comes to fodder maize, the obligation of maintaining permanent pasture is a source of controversy in Lithuania. There are questions about the usefulness of this. If the aim is to maintain diversity, we should restrict ourselves to preserving natural Uh, pastureland and meadows of high value. If we want to stock carbon, then permanent. Pasture is a possibility. But there are other possibilities, such as meadows which are rotating or direct sowing. And there are other questions which we already raised last September. Rural development requires a new approach so that farmers can use machinery and equipment bought for, uh, agricultural work with with the community. Thank you.”
Agriculture (green)
- “Mr. chair, madam Commissioner, dear colleagues, thank you very much the presidency and also the Commission for the opportunity to reflect on the future of the Framework Programme following the mid-term evaluation of Horizon Europe. From Lithuanian perspective, we would like to highlight three strategic priorities for shaping the future. First of all, individual excellence must not override the importance of scientific collaboration across Europe. Secondly, administrative system must support innovation, not hinder it to attract SMEs and new participants. And third, dual use technologies must be embraced. Let me elaborate on collaboration. Horizon Europe is more than a funding tool. It is the foundation of the European Research Area. It reduces fragmentation and acts as the 28th regime for researchers and innovators across the borders. In Lithuania's view, collaboration not only the pursuit of individual excellence is what defines a strong and united European research landscape. Connected networks of research talents across the Europe creates the added value that cannot be achieved through only bilateral or multilateral initiatives. Therefore, we believe that collaboration must remain central in the future. Program. On simplification, Lithuania supports the Commission's efforts, particularly the use of lump sum funding and blind valuations. Still, we need to do more to simplify innovation, support system, empower ideas, not only manage compliance, eliminate rules that delay or discourage innovations, create space for bold, risk taking initiatives regardless from which institution or country they are coming from, and to ensure the appropriate balance between bottom up and top down. Research on dual use technologies. Lithuania strongly supports the inclusion of dual use technologies in future framework programmes, and in our view, dual use delivers value in three very pragmatic ways. First of all, financially, as more national EU funding shifts to defend, we must achieve more with the same resources. Secondly, in human capacity military needs. Sorry, our R&D workforce is limited and we need smart synergies and third in technology. Military needs ready to use solutions and the dual use technologies can deliver them. So to succeed, we must move beyond the rigid black and white mindset and the framework programme we believe should adopt Proportionate, risk based approaches that enable dual use innovations. Thank you.”
Research priorities within the EU
- “Madam president, Mr. Commissioner, dear colleagues, we'd like to thank the Commission for the work it has done up to to date in implementing this strategy. We welcome the code or regulation and in terms of setting criteria for the use of the most harmful substances for critical uses. We believe that this work should continue. That is why we will call on the commission to speed up the revision of the Reach regulation and making a draft proposal on amending it accordingly. The reach, we believe, should be changed in a targeted way following the impact assessment, and that gaps with respect to requirements should be filled. We see some challenges coming up in terms of, in particular, insufficient progress on a limitation of the unnecessary use of PFAS. This is something which should be should happen as quickly as possible. Everything possible should be done to speed up this process. Another challenge is the growing Burden with respect of work for the European Chemicals Agency. There is a need for many experts in waste and drink, water and other issues that requires that is essential to in terms of ensuring the necessary personnel and resources. We believe that the long awaited framework regulation with respect to the European Chemicals Agency should be forthcoming as quickly as possible. One needs to streamline the working methods and to ensure more flexible financing. Thank you.”
Chemicals regulation
- “Investing in our region is existential for the whole European project, and we need to take it more seriously in the next MFF on Ukraine. We appreciate the continuation of separate special instruments. €100 billion is what we asked. How am I having in mind that deteriorating Ukraine's debt sustainability. We support the approach to provide more grants to Ukraine than loans On CPU. Around 30 degree decrease in CP seems problematic. We would have preferred ring fencing the whole CP, and it's important to achieve convergence of direct payments, as disparities within the internal market are not acceptable on cohesion. Full support to keeping the treaty based cohesion funds. We would also have preferred ring fencing cohesion budget in the national plan. We are worried about that. The new structural flexibilities will lead to cohesion becoming a crisis instrument, moving away from its treaty based objectives on two specific issues. Ignalina programme and Kaliningrad Special Transit Scheme. I would like to thank a commission for the proposed separate allocation for both programmes coming with sufficient amounts agreed and expert level. And finally on overall budget size. Due to new challenges, we have always supported bigger budget and are ready to contribute more via JNI contributions. However, there is one important correlation. If no increase in the budget size, there is no need for new owned resources. Thank you.”
Cohesion and rural funding · Size of EU budget
- “Thank you, chair. And we thank the secret presidency for the efforts invested in moving forward with the legislative files. As mentioned by some delegations, competitiveness today is inseparable from security.
Investors perceive region regions bordering Russia and Belarus as high risk, making loans and investment more costly. Therefore, eastern border regions must be recognized as horizontal priority in the next MFF, including in directly managed ECF.
We're also convinced that the ECF, should be operational from the very start of 2028 and focus on how to set, spread excellence, innovations, and added value across all EU member states and regions. Thank you.”
Cohesion and rural funding
- “Thank you, chairman. And thank you, Commissioner. Dear colleagues, this has been a very useful discussion and thank you for putting it on the agenda, chairman. Very timely. Rural areas have problems that aren't just dependent on the cap, but also on other policy areas. That's why the rule test is so important across all policy areas. And for that principle to operate properly, it needs to be strongly anchored across the board in all areas of legislation and should involve the social partners and other institutional stakeholders nationally. The rural test principle should apply not just to strategic decisions, but also when it comes to the financing decisions. At the same time, we must avoid extra red tape and administrative burdens. Furthermore, it's been said that this principle is already working and working well, and we heard what the commission said, but I'm not sure we all have the same idea of what this means, what working means, and what the implications of what is being done is to integrate rural development better in other areas. We also have our own homework to do. Rural development policy has to be robust, standalone and with sufficient funding. We were. Waiting with concern and interest what the vision would be for agriculture.”
Cohesion and rural funding
- “Thank you, Mr. Chairman. We agree with our colleagues proposal to call on the European Commission to draw up an integrated strategy for climate change and crisis management, with an emphasis on prevention and adaptation in the agricultural and forestry sectors, particularly in emergency situations and in the case of extreme events. Thank you. Thank you.”
Climate efforts
- “(17:24:29 – 17:26:27): Auguste Lauer, Mainich, Ausperda. I will proceed in English. Ireland recognizes foundational skills are key to delivering on our national policy priorities and focusing on the national missions we have set out. This requires flexible and future ready education and training systems to equip our citizens for today's labor markets, but actually for tomorrow's.
Our strategies across adult education support the diversification of pathways, including through tertiary education to have more flexible, more choices available to learners how to progress within those and navigate. We have an adult adult literacy for life strategy, positioning literacy, numeracy, and digital skills, including AI skills as part of the foundations.
We have significantly expanded work based learning and increased apprenticeship participation by over 60% in the last 5 years. An action plan on our apprenticeship will consolidate this further and integrate pathways through work. Furthermore, initiatives such as SpringBoard Plus, which is cofounded by our National Training Fund and the European Social Fund, allow Ireland to provide free and subsidized courses across multiple levels.
We lean on robust skills intelligence and forecasting to anticipate demand. These are led out by our National Skills Council and regional skills fora, complemented by sector level skills roundtable conversations, and these help to guide future orientated provision, including for emerging occupations and sectors.
At EU level, Ireland strongly supports cooperation through peer learning, and we welcome the outputs of the working groups of the European education area. Ireland also welcomes the work on the European skills intelligence observatory and the 2026 recommendation on human capital. We are developing a national skills observatory to complement the European skills, observatory also.
We want to finally thank the Cyprus presidency for your leadership and commitment. We look forward to close cooperation with all member states on these and many other topics as we look forward to assuming the presidency in a short few weeks. Thank you.”
Focus of EU policy on education (shaping workers vs citizens)
- “Thank you very much, chairman. And I would like to thank the Commission for presenting the two communications to us. We would like to thank, [00:00:30] uh, Belgium for the inclusive intersectoral discussions on the impact assessment. We're currently looking at the list of risks and measures. This is all very relevant risk management and strengthening resilience when it comes to food security, soil quality, protection of ecosystems, critical infrastructures and urban environment. These are all matters of [00:01:00] particular importance for us in Lithuania. Resilience needs to be strengthened not just at a local and national level, but internationally as well. We want to work towards a. Carbon neutrality by 2050. We're talking about 85% reduction by 2040. In order to achieve climate neutrality, we have to ensure that we have consistency [00:01:30] between all of our policies on emissions reductions. We have to have compensation, provide compensation for early reductions, plan our investment in the long terme. We have to reduce our imports of fossil fuels from third countries. And in particular Russia wants protecting our population from price fluctuations now. Regarding the 90% objective. This won't [00:02:00] be easy. Now. You're assuming that extending these objectives is going to lead to a 90% reduction. But. If you look at the national plans, the global effort overall is not enough. So what we need to have is a detailed analysis regarding the availability of technology.
We have to be able [00:02:30] to assess technological progress in different sectors. We have to be able to look at the cost of this technology and its geographical distribution. We are already facing challenges in the decarbonization of the transport sector. We'd have to reduce the cost of zero emissions vehicles. We have to reduce the cost of charging infrastructure. There are also challenges in industry and [00:03:00] agriculture. We need to find solutions with a better cost effectiveness ratio. With a view to the 2040 targets. The contribution of CCS technology is just too expensive. This kind of technology is not available in all regions and. The funding and availability [00:03:30] are differ very greatly, and this could have a negative impact on Member States competitiveness. We have to look at the financing which is available. We need an analysis of that as well. So it's very difficult for us to assess the feasibility without, um, having proper information. Our public has to be able to support a political choice and contribute towards such a choice. And this will [00:04:00] lead to, to, uh, social transition, which is just we have to attach a greater importance to the socio economic impact of these measures on member states. So we have to look at the situation in member states and allow for a compensation mechanism for any negative consequences.”
Climate efforts
- “Thank you David. Thank you for the efforts to implement your forest strategy. We believe that the adopted guidelines are a step forward and promoting good practices and contributing to the implementation of an effective forest policy, taking into account local conditions. However, we've recently been seeing new forest related EU level initiatives [00:21:30] that are not part of the forest strategy. This creates a risk for the consistency of the forest policy and the application of the principles of sustainable forest management. We believe that the Commission Standing Committee on Forests must continue to be the main and strengthened instrument for effective cooperation and a supporting instrument in reducing fragmentation of forest related issues. We also believe that forest related EU level legislation should be dealt with in the [00:22:00] Council Working Party on Forestry. As to the programme for Strategic Cooperation with Third countries, we appreciate the efforts and activities of Germany and other member States in this area. We are considering ways to contribute to strengthening this cooperation through the Team Europe Initiative on Deforestation or other similar initiatives. Lithuania in general supports the idea set out in the Austrian joint statement. We believe that the principles of sustainable forest [00:22:30] management should remain the basis of the current and future forest policy. Forestry is based on local conditions and practical experience in each member state and under the EU treaties, forest policy is a member state competence.”
Management of EU forests
- “Thank you very much, Chair. Commissioners. Dear colleagues, let me congratulate the Presidency for an impressive result in such a short period of time. In our view, the main benefits the compromise text holds are enhanced transparency and a sufficient data collection and sharing. Also, the flexibility for Member States to opt in when they are ready. We believe that this is this will positively affect the decisions of public authorities and will serve for better EU and national policy making. It is very important to us that the proposal is consistent with the DSA. Lithuania D4 supports call for compatibility with the DSA to be priority in the further negotiations with the EPP. Platforms should not be subjected to more obligations than they are already by the DSA, in particular the ones regarding random checks. And all in all, we support the proposed general approach.”
Digital platforms liability for harmful and illegal content
- “Thank you. And thank you for the colleagues from France and Germany. Raising these questions and sharing this idea and culture. Pass is a great tool to ensure access to culture for children and youth, as well as to develop their interests in culture at a young age. It is important that program cultural pass program would be designed specially for students more than all access [00:29:30] to already existing cultural offers on the market. For these reasons, we also have the Culture Pass program in Lithuania launched in 2018. The program is designed for students from primary and secondary school. They can choose from more than 4000 cultural and artistic events and educational activities developed specifically for the program by cultural institutions, organizations, and individual artists. Such activities need to promote active [00:30:00] and informed inclusion of children and youth into cultural activities, promote peaceful relationship sustainability, active citizenship and social equality. These are priorities for 2023 and 2026, and the key element of the cultural Pass program is synergies between culture and education systems, together with development of the qualifications of the teachers and educators in the cultural area. [00:30:30] Thank you.”
EU and national cultural identities
- “Thank you. Well, obviously we agree with what's just been said. We do need to bolster our cultural policy whilst at the same time respecting the principle of subsidiarity. Funding culture is very important for us. When Poland [00:25:30] joined the EU, and ever since, we've always tried to best use structural funds to benefit culture. We have over the last few years spent €3.5 billion from the European Fund for Regional Development. For maintaining and protecting monuments and protecting cultural heritage and promoting it as well. So given all of that, we think it's key that we provide stronger financial support under the MFF to [00:26:00] the culture sector, to. So that's within the context of structural funds. We think the Creative Europe programme must be continued. And there should be more funds available, and financial support needs to correspond to the challenges faced by the cultural sector. And we also want. To contribute. So [00:26:30] they didn't know Mechelen and Prize and the European Capital of Culture. I'm afraid the speaker's microphone has been cut just before the end. Microphone is back on. So we think it's important. To increase the value of the prize, which I mentioned at the moment is about €1.5 million. This has not changed for a long time. [00:27:00] So the figure needs to be updated, and we also need to ensure we have all the instruments at our disposal. To enable us to support. And strengthen any works. Which are key for European heritage. So we need more funds at our disposal, and we also need to act to ensure that there's systemic support within the framework of the Creative Europe programme to [00:27:30] support the aims which have been established.
Dear colleagues, Lithuania strongly supports the issue raised by Germany. Culture and European Union policy should receive strategic emphasis to foster cross-cultural understanding and promote unity among member States while respecting cultural diversity. It plays a crucial role in shaping the shared identity and values of the European Union. Culture [00:28:00] needs to be ensured, a proper and visible place, along with other EU policies as well as better financing. This is in line with EU aspirations to take a lead in its commitment to work towards the recognition of culture as a global public good, and establishing culture as a standalone sustainable.”
EU and national cultural identities
- “Dear colleagues, [00:03:00] I would also like to thank presidency for its attention to social investments, well planned social investments and strategically focused reforms in fostering positive impacts on inclusive economic growth, productivity and competitiveness is crucial. Lithuania's budget 2024 serves as a confirmation to this commitment. It not only aims to increase income, [00:03:30] but also places emphasis on investing in the education active labour market policies, improving the quality of accessibility of social and health care and long term care services, and ensuring the efficiency of social support. A recent strategic planning reform in Lithuania set an obligation to assess the long term impact of governmental interventions and investments, including those in the social sphere. Our [00:04:00] new law of strategic management underscores the clear connection between strategic planning objectives and budget spending in the distinctions between strategic investment and operational activities and costs, and the importance of data and impact assessment. A unified system for data and indicators is being created created to support this initiative. The long term impact of strategic social investments has been [00:04:30] assessed. Applying cost benefit principles and equal opportunities as a horizontal principle is integrated into each measure. I firmly believe that the effective implementation of evidence based social policies requires reliable and timely data, including administrative level macro data.
[00:04:51] To observe trends, the state data agency synchronizes governmental data in daily schedules. Additionally, our ministry is [00:05:00] developing a universal platform for social assistance that will enable the development of targeted schemes as well. It is very important to empower social investments and impact assessment implementation. We need to strengthen our public sector competences and learn from the best EU practices. Dear colleagues, the coordination and monitoring of social economic policies are vital for stability and reforms. The Epsco Council, in active collaboration [00:05:30] with Ecofin, has the potential to facilitate the coordination in the areas of the labour market, skills and social policy as outlined in relevant treaty provisions. Last but not least, I think we must not forget in this debate that geopolitical context and the vital need to support EU enlargement process, we must engage candidate states, Ukraine, Moldova and others in meaningful discussions on social convergence and [00:06:00] EU semester. It will assist in preparation for the integration into Social Europe. Let's continue to work together towards a future of Europe, where social investments and strategic reforms pave the way for sustained economic growth, more resilient and prosperous societies.”
European Semester (social dimension)
- “Thank you, Stephanie, and thank you, the commission for presenting this package. Uh, we support the aims of the proposals presented by the Commission, as we think it is of utmost importance, uh, to enhance the attractiveness of securitisation, Retaliation for for fostering our capital markets. Reduce barriers. Create a more effective ecosystem for financing instruments. Uh, I will note only one issue. It is particularly crucial to our opinion to improve access for smaller credit institutions, because facilitating their participation would significantly enhance their capacity to support lending to the real economy, especially in the countries with a shallow, uh, uh, capital market like like Baltic states. Uh, so we welcome the proposals on reporting and due diligence simplification. Uh, but we believe that further steps probably are necessary, particularly in streamlining capital requirements. Simpler, more proportionate rules can still uphold prudence and risk awareness, but would allow smaller institutions to comply, uh, without the disproportionate effort that is currently required. And finally, as we pursue. Simplification, it is essential that we do not compromise financial stability. And here attention should be also paid to for example proposed reduction of capital requirements. Thank you.”
Financial regulation
- “I'd like to thank Maria from the Portuguese delegation. Clearly a revision of existing legislation is required after 18 years. We agree with the proposals put forward in the document and those points need to be taken into account. We need to focus on improving animal transport conditions. Because this will determine the proper functioning of the single market and our trade with third countries. We need to ensure effective implementation if we want to make a difference. We need to apply rules outside the European Union as well. That means then, that we need to work with the with international animal health organisations and third countries. We need a network of contact points in third countries and we need to step up the responsibility of transporters in order to improve transport conditions. Thank you.”
EU requirements on animal welfare for farmers
- “Thank you. Chair. Commissioner. Colleagues. Ministers. Thank you for the presentation of the communication and the detailed analysis of the situation, as well as the milestones for 2026. Baltic fisheries represent a small part of Lithuania's fisheries, but it is an important part of our identity. We aim to preserve fishing, the fishing profession and coastal communities for future generations. Despite more positive scientific advice for Baltic pelagic stocks, concerns about fishing opportunities for 2026 remain. We support the Commission's call for effective implementation of the requirements of EU environmental legislation. We appreciate that the communication recognises the main causes of poor status of fish stocks in the Baltic Sea, which are not directly related to the fishing activities carried out by the EU fleet. At the same time, we remind you that the fishing community expects a coherent, informed solutions, a rational approach taking into account both the geopolitical situation and their own contribution. In the current context, ensuring access to quality, sustainable food remains essential. This is a key element of Europe's autonomy and security. At the international level, it is also necessary to strengthen the competitiveness of the EU fleet and ensure fair competition with that countries that often do not respect the same sustainability standards as the EU. We must not forget that when the EU steps backwards, when it does not exploit its strategic strengths, or. Weakens or over regulation that weakens our fishermen. This is quickly exploited by third countries, including the aggressor Russia. We must maintain the strategic advantages of the EU, avoid overregulation, and effectively prevent unsustainable and underreporting fishing unreported fishing so that third countries and in particular the aggressor country, Russia, cannot reap the benefits of the EU market and generate unfair benefits. We reiterate our call for united and coordinated action at the EU level to prevent any economic benefit that could contribute to strengthening Russia's war economy. The fisheries sector needs clear perspectives, fair and comprehensible operating rules and funding that responds to the current challenges. Thank you.”
Environmental regulation of fisheries
- “Thank you. The Danish minister. Commissioner. Chair colleagues for Ukraine. Agricultural exports to the US are one of the most important sources of national income. The EU is a vital market for a country fighting for its own freedom and for our freedom. What? People are getting killed? Opening up the market to Ukraine is one of the forms of assistance. It enables the Ukrainian economy to function. We support the European Commission's efforts to liberalise trade with Ukraine. We are in favour of the greatest possible liberalisation of trade. Ukraine needs this most now and it is our duty to help them. Moreover, we also need more active and concrete action by the Commission to help Ukraine preserve traditional third country markets and find ways to open up new markets to the third countries. Thank you.”
Agricultural trade: Ukraine imports
- “Thank you for the work you have done on this relevant issue. We believe that the amendments to the directives have taken into account the growing expectations of consumers to have complete information when choosing products to ensure their traceability and to ensure fair, fair competition principles for EU producers. Provisions [00:14:30] concerning honey are very important to us, namely the labelling of its blends and reducing its counterfeiting. We hope that the that the next presidency will cooperate with the European Parliament in order to achieve a, a an agreement as quickly as possible. Thank you.”
Food labelling harmonisation at EU level
- “Thank you, Mr. Chairman, who would also like to thank Finland for raising this relevant issue. In view of the damage caused by large carnivores. Solutions are needed to react more quickly to the changing [00:24:30] situation, and to give flexibility to Member States and the management of the large carnivores, especially increasing wolf populations. We hope that the Commission, after assessing the latest scientific evidence, will come forward with proposals for the inclusion of carnivore populations in good conservation status in the relevant annexes of the directive.”
Nature protection and restoration in the EU
- “Thank you very much indeed, Madam Chair. Thank you for giving me the floor. We thank the presidency for its work on this proposal. Actually, we can support the objectives of the directive because it is very important in achieving a clean environment, contributing to the zero pollution objective and ensuring the protection of human health, both in the EU and internationally. [00:39:30] We very much appreciate the efforts of the presidency to address our concerns and seek compromise solutions. However, there are still some elements that raise concern, such as the extension of scope, because the obligation to connect all agglomerations above 1250 inhabitants in population equivalent would impose a significant financial burden. The geographical location and migration trends in such smaller settlements often mean that the environmental [00:40:00] impact of wastewater treatment systems would be negligible. Moreover, the installation of such system would come at an unjustifiable cost. As regards the derogations now, we still consider that it would have been appropriate to provide for exemptions allowing for a longer implementation period of 12 years, rather than eight years for the member states that joined the EU in 2004 and later. We [00:40:30] understand the importance of the principle of extended producer responsibility, but its application may contribute to a higher cost of medicines and also production and supply bottlenecks, which could in turn lead to the deterioration in access to medicines. In order to ensure a level playing field in all member states, it would be more effective to implement the principle of EPR at the EU level through a separate EU level instrument that would be aligned with the provisions of the pharmaceutical legislation. [00:41:00] Alternatively, the application of the principle of EPR should not be binding on Member States. Now, we are also concerned that it may be difficult for wastewater treatment plants in Lithuania to achieve energy neutrality. The proposed value of 30%, where energy can be purchased from external sources is too low. Member states should be granted more flexibility. Still, we are aware that a delicate [00:41:30] balance between the positions of member states has been struck. Thus, Lithuania is ready to be constructive and supports the general approach in the spirit of compromise. Thank you.”
Water pollution
- “Thank [00:24:00] you very much indeed, Madam Chair. First of all, I would like to thank the Commissioner, Virginijus Sinkevicius and the Commission for organising the second Baltic Conference. I would also like to extend my thanks to ministers and other representatives from all the Baltic states and the countries around the Baltic Sea. It was very useful to discuss the progress made since the first Baltic Conference Conference, the Baltic Sea Special. Because it's shallow, it has limited connection to the ocean, its low water circulation [00:24:30] and low water temperature. It is also the most polluted sea in Europe. It is therefore essential to work together towards the common goal of improving the environmental status of the sea. I would like to emphasize that the actions set out in the conference declaration are cross-sectoral, and only close institutional and regional cooperation can help us to implement them properly. A special theme for this year was submerged unexploded ordnance or munitions. An agreement was signed to tackle this problem. This [00:25:00] was an important outcome of the event and I hope that it will become a beautiful tradition in the future. Thank you.”
Water pollution
- “As Minister of Agriculture, I'm concerned about the unresolved legal and financial uncertainty, primarily with regard to the mandatory measures of the CEP. We do not have a safe budget. It is still unclear who will be responsible for the processing of agricultural products, for the Leader program, for training, consulting and the continuity of innovation. If these areas are not clearly established from a legal and financial point of view, we risk that the objectives of strengthening rural areas might remain merely declarative. We therefore hope that the Commission caps cap recommendations will clearly address these areas as well, ensuring the continuity of rural development measures. As regards the French proposal to transfer provisions from the regulation to the sectoral regulations. We consider this is a very positive step towards greater autonomy of the CPA and CFP. The transfer of key provisions to the relevant sectors regulations will reduce legal uncertainty and increase the consistency of the entire system. We also call for further progress on the visibility of the mentioned policies. We are open for further discussions on the transposition of additional articles of the NRP regulation relating to the Cap, CFP and into the sectoral regulations. Thank you.”
Agricultural funding
- “Uh thank you chair. We also thank Estonia and Poland for the questions raised. We all understand that the aim of the omnibus proposal to reduce administrative burden, but the proposal to include the sowing of treated seeds in the definition of the use of pgprs raises concern. We propose not to extend the scope of use and to refrain from considering the sowing of treated seeds as the use of PGP. Such a proposal would create legal uncertainty and increase the administrative burden on users of treated seeds. It is also appropriate to review the regulation on the approval of active substances and the registration of pbp's, especially in cases where there are no alternatives. Since such situations are social and economic, sustainability assessment should be mandatory. And also we think that it's necessary to ensure the availability of these products on the market.”
EU policy on pesticides
- “Thank you. We joined the Polish position paper and support this initiative. Sebum is important for fair carbon pricing on imports. But applying it to TSOs for emergency support and unplanned electricity flows is impractical and could disrupt electricity system operations. Emergency support, especially to Ukraine, is critical for secure and reliable power supply. We therefore support excluding TSOs from Cbam obligations or granting them free allowances. Thank you.”
Climate efforts
- “Thank you very much, Mr. Chair. Madam Commissioner, dear colleagues, let me start by underlining that Lithuania is fully committed to a strong and ambitious framework program that should strengthen Europe's scientific excellence, competitiveness and resilience. However, we believe that to achieve this ambition, the challenge today is not a political will that apparently is present at the table, but the need for greater strategic and operational clarity. After months of negotiations, we agree on the main pillars and the principles, but the fundamental elements remain unclear. And this is why we as Lithuania, we co-signed the AOB poetries by our Spanish colleagues, and we agreed that we need a well-articulated strategic priority setting mechanism coupled with a clear governance structure, particularly in relation to EKF. Furthermore, we need clarity on how we will ensure future proof European partnerships and as incubators for emerging technologies, how we will demonstrate the added value of the new investment model in research and technology infrastructures. How the program will address the concerns raised previously by the Member States regarding dual use by default, while also preserving cooperation with associated countries, and also how we will ensure the effectiveness of the package and its potential to address the long standing innovation gap. We appreciate to hear the Commission's position regarding urgency insufficient clarity on these aspects. Neither delivers simplification nor strengthens Member States flexibility, and this uncertainty then, does not remain in Brussels to ensure smooth and effective implementation of the programme from day one. We will need to align our national programmes, our national systems with the programme to have a true multiplier effect. We need to plan synergies of our with our financial instruments. Our International agencies may need to adapt in a timely manner so that we all can benefit in the future. To sum up, we appreciate the Commission's commitment and we hope that with the efforts of all the Member States around the table, our ambition will be underpinned by a credible and workable implementation. As Lithuania, we stay fully committed to a constructive, speedy debate. Thank you.”
EU-level coordination of research agendas
- “Thank you, chair, dear commissioner, dear colleagues. First of all, I would like to thank the commission for this promising proposal and the presidency for placing this issue on the council's agenda. Also, would like to underline that Lithuania strongly supports the creation of the 20 eighth regime as a practical tool to strengthen the single market and Europe's global competitiveness.
It can provide innovative companies, startups and scale ups with a simple harmonized company form that works seamlessly across borders and is fit for the digital age. To succeed, the framework should reduce red tape, lower entry costs, and enable faster cross border scaling.
At the same time, we need balanced approach that ensures legal certainty across the union. For Lithuania, a key element is fast and fully digital by default incorporation. Companies should be established online quickly and at low cost with digital procedures used throughout the process. This should become the standard way of doing business in Europe.
We also support a shared based model, the possibility to establish companies without a minimum capital requirement and flexible mechanism to raise capital and attract talent. This is particularly important for start up seeking to scale with the single market.
At the same time, simplification and flexibility must go hand in hand with trust and legal certainty. High standards of protection for investors, creditors, employees and other stakeholders will be essential for the long term success and credibility of businesses. The 20 eighth regime should become a reliable and trusted European label combining regulatory simplicity with strong transparency and good governance standards. We are ready to contribute constructively towards achieving this objective. Thank you.”
EU Single Market harmonisation
- “Thank you chair. Lithuania welcomes the recommendation and I would like to express the full commitment of of Lithuania to science diplomacy. And we should like we would like to thank the presidency for very smooth negotiations of the document and for the inclusion of three very important provisions to the proposed text, and I would like to mention these specifically. So, first of all, the document emphasizes that the union science policy firmly is firmly grounded to the core of the Union's values, including freedom, democracy, equality, the rule of law, and respect for human rights. And I think that this is very important. Mentioning that was missing. Secondly, the the document recognises that science diplomacy should not serve as a mechanism to undermine union level sanctions. So this is also a very important recognition. And we believe that having this provision is very important given the geographical situation that we have. And finally, I would like to also thank for the recognition of a particular attention to a fragile and geopolitically strategic environment, such as the European Union's eastern border, where there is a clear recognition that we can act also regionally and in Lithuania. We are currently working on national on our national guidance on science diplomacy, and I can reassure that they will be fully in line with the European approach. And we look forward for further collaboration in this field with other member states. Thank you.”
EU relations with Eastern Neighbourhood
- “Embodies our shared vision and collective effort towards greener more resilient and sustainable Europe. The midterm review emphasises that while many initiatives are still in the implementation phase and the full environmental impact remains to be assessed, the EU has already laid down strong legal foundation for ambitious climate and environmental goals. This framework is set to accelerate the transition in key sectors such as energy industry and transport. Nia supports the final compromise document of council conclusions. We are particularly grateful that our proposal to highlight severe environmental and climate consequences of Russians, war of aggression in Ukraine, along with significant implications for European security, has been incorporated into final text. Thank you.”
Climate efforts
- “51:49 – 10:52:50): Thank you, chairman, executive vice president, colleagues, ministers. Thank you to Cyprus presidency for all the work put into examination of the DNA. Let me single out 2 issues that are important to Lithuania. 1st, we have misgivings regarding a mandatory switch off of copper networks as this may have a negative impact on consumers. We believe measures like this, may lower service access both in terms of availability and affordability.
2nd, we must put shared efforts into ensuring a 100% satellite connectivity coverage on the European territory. This will not only ensure service availability, but would also strengthen, resilience of networks to your level. That is common interest, in the EU. I have our network in resistance. And best of luck to the Irish colleagues, Netherlands and Luxembourg for long.”
EU policy on accessibility of digital infrastructure
- “Thank you chair. Dear Commissioner, dear colleagues. Lithuania thanks the Cyprus Presidency for the progress made in advancing the Horizon Europe package and we fully support the presidency's ambition to reach a partial general approach already in June. In response to the question, we consider that strategic priority setting, European partnership and widening. Are the elements critical for reaching a strong compromise text concerning the priority settings. Lithuania fully supports the currently proposed process, including including the advisory role of Iraq. A similar provision should also be reflected in the regulation establishing the European Competitiveness Fund in order to ensure seamless innovation journey and of course, a strong political ownership by the member States concerning European partnerships. The European partnerships should be closely aligned with the long term strategic priorities, and we believe that to maximise impact, Europe needs fewer but broader partnerships, supported by robust impact assessments and designed and implemented together with the member States from the outset. Concerning widening, we believe that the measures remain necessary to foster a more united Europe in the field of research and innovation. However, we should not lose sight of the main objective, which is to which is reducing disparities in scientific and innovation capacities, as well as participation levels among European Union member states. We believe that these measures should effectively respond to this objective and to the country's needs, while their effectiveness should continue to be regularly reviewed. We should avoid creating additional divisions among member states or a multi-speed Europe. And all these efforts should continue with the long term aim of ensuring that widening measures will not longer be necessary in the future. And in this regard, Lithuania supports the continuation of successful instruments such as RF fellowships and the EIC pre-accelerator, and sees a strong need for similar instruments to support the participation of widening countries in IRC calls. And finally, we would like to express a full solidarity with our Romanian colleagues. And in the light of this, we would like to emphasize that we fully support the EIC. Darpa proposal, and we believe that strengthening competitiveness in the current political geopolitical environment requires an integrated approach for innovative companies, including those operating in the defense sector. Thank you.”
EU-level coordination of research agendas · Research priorities within the EU
- “The Commissioner colleagues, Lithuania welcomes the compromise reached on the Euro seven regulation. We want to emphasize that a balanced solution is necessary to ensure that the ambition of a Euro seven does not reduce the affordability and availability of new cars. Further aggravating the. Aging car fleet problem of cars in Europe. Lithuania [00:44:00] considers the text as presented today at the council as well-balanced. It reconciles the ambition to reduce the environmental impact of road transport while allowing manufacturers to focus necessary efforts and investments towards transition to future technologies. Therefore, electric and hydrogen cars. Lithuania can support the general approach today, and we thank you very much.”
Road transport environmental policy
- “Thank you very much. Dear Hanna, for your constructive chairmanship. Dear Commissioner, dear colleagues, the Creative Europe programme is the main pillar of the European cultural policy. The production of cultural content of high artistic value at European level helps keep the cultural and creative sectors. Vibrant. Cross border cooperation brings new ideas and drives the cultural and creative sectors to develop and be globally competitive. This is actually the focus of the Creative Europe. Recognising the essential role of culture in the social and economic development and the promotion of democratic values, and integrating the cultural and creative sectors. In pursuit of these objectives, we should ensure that this programme is adequately funded. Let us make the next generation of creative Europe efficient, flexible and empowering, offering more accessible forms of funding flexible and innovative process management so that it would serve better the needs of the different cultural and creative sectors, and would generate greater participation in all the strands of the program. According to the representatives of Lithuania's cultural and creative sectors, Creative Europe offers the opportunities for creative freedom, diversity and deepness, so we need to preserve it and develop further. As regards the strategic framework of the Culture Compass, I would like to highlight the following. Firstly, we should support the security and defence of the European Union.”
EU and national cultural identities
- “Thank you, Chair. Lithuania is concerned is convinced that we need a clear legal framework for innovation that can contribute to achieving the sustainability and competitiveness objectives of the agri food sector, while at the same time addressing environmental challenges. Lithuania attaches importance to the issue of proportionate regulation of plants obtained by new genomic techniques. Therefore, further and further discussions are needed in this area in order to achieve a balanced solution. Thank you.”
New Genomic Techniques
- “Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Commissioner colleagues. We should first understand that for Ukraine, exports of agricultural products to the EU are one of the most important sources of national income. It is also one of the most important forms of our assistance to a country fighting for its own freedom and for our freedom, so that it has the means to defend itself. We support the Commission's efforts to liberalise trade with Ukraine. The renewed agreement with Ukraine is a strategic agreement aimed at integrating Ukraine into the EU market. At the same time, it addresses the sensitivities of the EU agricultural sector and establishes strong market protection measures. Thank you.”
Agricultural trade: Ukraine imports
- “(17:23:10 – 17:27:16): Well, thanks a lot for a good question. Well, as you know, we presented as commission. We presented next MFF with ambitious, spending for defense and space and and competitiveness fund. In general, our proposal means if that proposal will be supported by by the heads of the states at hand. Our proposal means that we are increasing defense and space spending by 5 times if to compare with what we have today.
How we shall divide in between of defense and space? It's still, you know, not not at this time, we had a final decision. But, in any case, you know, definitely, it will be even also for space, it will be much more than space we have yet, today. And space financing really needs both flexibility and predictability because in space, we need to either build new infrastructure or to exploit and finance. Either building or exploitation of space infrastructure, which demands, really both big investment and predictable investment.
Now European Space Act, yes, we presented last year, And it's really very, obviously, very significant, very strategic step forward. So it takes time to discuss, and really, it's very good progress was done both by Danish presidency and now by Cyprus presidency. I said, I have a hope that during Kyrgyz presidency, maybe, you know, it will council will conclude its positions and we shall have also parliament and and dialogues as and I hear from parliament, they are very much supported for this act.
Of course, we saw the amendments and all the changes, but I am absolutely sure that we shall have successful progress with this very important strategic act, is really introducing new approach into European how Europe is going to develop its space programs and how to avoid fragmentation of our, very important space agenda.
On, other issues like Iris Square, today we have also informal meeting initiated by French minister, Batista, so called friends of Iris Square. It was really good gathering with countries which are really supporting Iris Square. And I do not see any kind of disagreement among member states which were present and and German representatives was here also on disagreement on significance of Iris Square.
So this is what what is very important. Second, what we see as some kind of new phenomena, which really is, from 1 side, is really good, but also it brings some challenges. We see that member states who are really increasing their defense spending, they are also, you know, shifting some of their defense spending into space. And Germany announced their program, but we know also that other countries are developing the, you know, as observation governmental service, you know, constellations for themselves, like Poland, like, you know, some some Scandinavian countries.
So from 1 side, this is really very good that, you know, new investments are coming into space and we're developing some kind of very much needed infrastructure. What is important is that was very much stressed by by Joseph Asbacher, by ESA, director general, that we need to guarantee also interoperability among those who know nationally developed systems in order really to have synergy and to have, you know, the best added value of what we are doing now. So that is what we are looking for. Thank you. Do we have any other questions? Yes. There is 1 more.”
Defence spending · EU competences on space policy