Dutch Minister of Foreign Affairs Tom Berendsen paid his first visit to Lithuania this week. In Vilnius the minister met his counterpart, Minister Kęstutis Budrys, to discuss how European allies can take on greater responsibility within NATO, continue our support for Ukraine and keep pressure on Russia. Lithuania’s efforts in these areas are an example to the Alliance.

Minister Berendsen also visited the Dutc h military in the NATO multinational battlegroup in Rukla. “This mission is the embodiment of our countries’ friendship,” the minister said. “Here we stand shoulder to shoulder against the Russian threat.”

The Netherlands and Lithuania are united in the defence of our shared values. That connection is also the foundation upon which also political, economic, academic, and cultural exchanges between our countries continue to grow.