Partnership of Poland and Lithuania

Support in the construction of the camp

– I want to appreciate this initiative very much and thank you for it, due to the fact that it gives the chance to make the capabilities and training of our allies from NATO," said Kosiniak-Kamish at a press conference after the meeting. As he reported, the camp will be prepared not only for Lithuanian troops, but besides for allied troops, including American and German, stationed in Lithuania.

– We besides talked about the anticipation of exercises at this camp with the participation of Polish troops, and thank you very much for this invitation," stressed the head of the Polish MON. At the same time, the Deputy Prime Minister declared that, if necessary, Polish engineering troops could join the project. “This task will be carried out with respect to the local population and dialog with the local community. I besides want to calm the Polish side: the investment concerns the territory of the Republic of Lithuania, and the Lithuanian side will make all effort to guarantee that it is carried out safely – Kosiniak-Kamysz assured.

Both heads of defence departments besides noted that the location of the camp close the border would open fresh opportunities for Polish and Lithuanian army cooperation. – This will be a place where we will increase the defence of the Suwałki Corridor. We are in the first stage, but we realize that this ground is very needed – Kaunas added. He added that the final decision on the campout would be taken by the Sejm of Lithuania.

Strategic arms partner

The Polish minister besides announced efforts to improve military mobility between Poland and Lithuania. He stressed that cooperation includes not only coordination of defence activities and strengthening military capabilities, but besides a common consequence to conventional and hybrid threats, including border protection, airspace and critical infrastructure. He besides added that inactive this year, joint exercises of Polish and Lithuanian troops are planned.

The subject of the talks between the 2 heads of defence departments was besides cooperation in the European Union. As Kosiniak-Kamysz said, Lithuania is simply a very crucial partner for us in promoting the arms industry, in its improvement and in joint purchases. "All initiatives that will appear in the EU, concerning investment in military space and the arms industry, will support joint purchasing. The partnership between Poland and Lithuania in this respect is natural and must be even closer," the head of the Polish MON stressed.

At the same time, he announced joint initiatives of Poland and Lithuania, including in the area of purchases within the framework of SAFE program. – The subject that we are curious in as both manufacturers and users are “Storm” systems. I am pleased with the good opinion of Lithuanian soldiers and the Lithuanian government on the usefulness of this equipment produced in Poland," added the Polish minister. He besides discussed support for Ukraine and expansion Eastern Shields and the Baltic Defence Line.

– Lithuania and Poland present connect much more than just the border. Our citizens realize what it means to be under occupation, to live in tribulation, and these times will never return. Poland and Lithuania are strategical partners. We realize that we are the countries that invest most in NATO, and we know that our leadership and our decisions will depend on the future of our people," Kaunas said.