Cooperation with Russia

Above all, arrangements in the field of transport remain to be clarified, as this is an area where Russia and Lithuania share interests but also compete: the two ports of Klaipėda and Kaliningrad can benefit from synergies, while also needing to take into account the economic competition between them. The talks also concern an agreement on shipping through the Curonian Lagoon and Lithuania’s waterways, as well as the possible simplification of border crossings for residents of the border regions of both countries. Thus, the discussions between Russia and Lithuania are focused on ambitious goals and, above all, important regulations. The agreements are expected to provide above all for practical, red-tape-free solutions that will put trade relations between the two countries on a footing that benefits both sides.

Another stated aim of the talks between Lithuania and Russia is to sign an intergovernmental agreement on cooperation to combat pollution of the Baltic Sea by oil and other pollutants. If signed, the document will commit Russia and Lithuania to providing mutual assistance in preventing incidents that could cause pollution in the Baltic Sea. Observers view the talks as an important sign that Lithuania and Russia are pursuing a targeted policy of rapprochement. This could therefore mark the beginning of further talks on cooperation and similar agreements between the two countries.