Lithuania plans to disburse EUR 10 million this year to implement the Danish model in Ukraine
Ukraine and Lithuania are deepening their cooperation in the defense, energy and economic sectors. This was emphasized by Prime Minister of Ukraine Denys Shmyhal at a press conference following the first intergovernmental consultations between the two countries, which took place in Kyiv on December 20.
The Head of the Ukrainian Government noted that Lithuania was currently a co-leader in the coalition for humanitarian and combat demining. In addition, this state makes a significant contribution within the coalition of drones, the coalition of air defense, and the coalition of information technology.
According to Denys Shmyhal, Lithuanian partners are actively involved in the restoration of our country. With their participation, 7 projects to rebuild Ukraine have already been implemented, and 7 more are underway. This program involves not only the government, but also businesses and the public sector.
“Lithuania is also one of the leaders in supporting the Ukrainian energy sector. The total amount of energy assistance is more than EUR 67 million,” emphasized Denys Shmyhal adding that the parties had agreed to further effectively support the Ukrainian energy sector. In particular, on the transfer of equipment from decommissioned Lithuanian NPPs and thermal power plants.
In addition, according to the Prime Minister of Ukraine, there is an agreement on the first tranche of EUR 10 million from Lithuania this year to implement the 'Danish model', i.e. to finance the production of military equipment in Ukraine. According to Denys Shmyhal, Lithuania is the second country among the partners to implement this approach.
The Republic of Lithuania also confirmed its readiness to further intensify cooperation between the defense industries of the countries, providing for the joint production of drones, electronic warfare equipment, and ammunition.
In terms of European integration, the Head of the Ukrainian Government noted that Lithuania would provide both political support and advisory assistance throughout the negotiation process on joining the EU and on the path to the North Atlantic Alliance.
“Ukraine has the most powerful army in Europe, is already fighting according to NATO standards, defends European democratic values and pays an extremely high price for freedom. Therefore, our membership in the EU and NATO is not only about Ukraine's security and stability, but also a significant contribution to the transatlantic unity and defense capability of Europe,” Denys Shmyhal emphasized.
Speaking to the media, the Prime Minister of Ukraine also emphasized that Lithuania remains Ukraine's largest trading partner among the Baltic states. In the first 8 months of 2024, bilateral trade reached more than USD 1 billion. Businesses of both countries are interested in further developing cooperation, even despite the difficult wartime circumstances.
“Ukraine and Lithuania are moving together towards a common goal - a secure united Europe, a free world, and the victory of democratic values and the principles of international law,” summarized Denys Shmyhal.