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Roundup: NATO to discuss increasing presence in Eastern Europe: German FM

Xinhua, May 26, 2016 Adjust font size:

NATO will discuss deploying additional partners' forces in Eastern Europe during its upcoming summit in Warsaw in July, German Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier said here on Thursday.

"Germany was always sticking to its promises and agreements, concerning NATO security measures and agreements made in the previous summit in Wales," Steinmeier was quoted by local media as saying in a joint press conference with Lithuanian Foreign Minister Linas Linkevicius.

"Agreements will be made in Warsaw too and we will take our responsibility," the German minister underlined.

According to him, deterrence measures and reduction of tensions remain as part of NATO priority elements in the region.

The foreign ministers noted the importance of closer cooperation aiming at a successful NATO summit in Warsaw. Linkevicius said that Eastern Europe needed a clearly visible and palpable allied presence in the region.

"We hope that important decisions will be taken at the NATO Summit in Warsaw, which will strengthen the alliance's eastern wing," Linkevicius said.

In his words, Lithuania appreciates Germany's active efforts, namely the country's participation in the NATO air policing mission, sending troops to take part in the military exercise in Lithuania, and cooperation in the field of armaments and equipment.

Linkevicius noted that alliance partners have been increasingly active in the Baltic region.

"Of course, one battalion cannot protect all the territory, however, the process is gaining momentum; solidarity of NATO partners gladdens us," said Lithuanian minister.

The ministers discussed the prospects for bilateral cooperation, the situation in Ukraine, relations with Russia, Eastern neighbours, energy security and other issues on the international agenda.

Steinmeier also met with Lithuanian President Dalia Grybauskaite to discuss preparations for the NATO summit in Warsaw and the situation in Ukraine.

"Lithuania highly values Germany's contribution to ensuring regional security and its decision to take on leadership in the formation of NATO's multinational battalion in our country," the head of state emphasized.

The president and the German minister also discussed measures to manage the migration crisis.

Lithuania and Germany maintain intensive cooperation ties in the field of defense. Germany has sent its troops to Lithuania for exercises. This year a total of 600 German troops are to arrive in the Baltic country in several stages, Lithuanian Presidency announced.

Lithuania purchases infantry fighting vehicles Boxer from German producers. Of all NATO allies, Germany has been rotating its troops in the Baltic air policing mission most frequently. Endit