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Belgium's contribution is necessary for the security of Lithuania and the whole NATO and the EU, says Vice Minister of National Defence K. Aleksa

Republic of Lithuania - Ministry of National Defence

2025-05-23
Security and defense policy

Vice Minister of National Defence Karolis Aleksa met with Minister of Defence of Belgium Theo Francken who is on a work visit in Lithuania. K. Aleksa and T. Francken discussed bilateral defence cooperation, agenda of the upcoming NATO Summit, initiatives strengthening the EU defence capabilities, protection of undersea infrastructure, and support to Ukraine.

Vice Minister thanked Belgium for the contribution to regional security with NATO Baltic Air Policing detachments and contingents deployed to the NATO Multinational Battlegroup, as well as the constructive cooperation between the Lithuanian and the Belgian special forces.

"The Belgian contribution to the security of the EU and NATO eastern border of is not just important but also highly appreciated. Belgium's military presence in Lithuania and the region and partnership in different missions with our and other Allies' forces is a perfect example of professionalism and solidarity - and a clear message of deterrence to Russia," said Vice Minister K. Aleksa.

K. Aleksa also highlighted at the meeting that Europe needed to take more responsibility in the current geopolitical context and noted that Lithuania will be increasing defence spending to approx. 4% of GDP still this year and will step up to 5-6% of GDP through 2026-2030. "We need to demonstrate the European commitment to security and increase our defence spending as quickly as possible," said Vice Minister K. Aleksa.

Both sides pointed out that the financial, institutional and regulatory resources of the whole EU had to be drawn on in order to increase the European defence investment in a significant way. The White Paper for European Defence issued by the European Commission and the ReARM Europe initiatives were praised and their speedy implementation was invited.

Development of the defence sector was also discussed at the meeting. Both Lithuania and Belgium are looking to develop their defence industry by attracting foreign investment.

Both sides agreed that continuing the support to Ukraine was critical. "Only a swift replenishment of Ukraine's capabilities can ensure deterrence that counts," said Vice Minister.

Belgium is an active participant of the NATO Air Policing Mission in the Baltic states. It was the first country to send in the air policing fighter aircraft when Lithuania joined NATO in 2004. Since then, it has deployed contingents to Šiauliai seven times.

The Belgian Navy is an active participant of Operation Open Spirit, a historical ordnance disposal effort organized by the Baltic states alongside other NATO and EU countries. Belgium also contributes to joint exercises, arranges courses of different levels which are also open for the Lithuanian military.

In 2023 Belgium became a full-fledged member of the Lithuanian-led Cyber Rapid Response Team (CRRT).