Lithuania’s Minister of the Interior met with the Executive Director of the European Union Agency for Asylum, to discuss the implementation of the EU Pact on Migration and Asylum, as well as ongoing cooperation and solidarity measures.
During the meeting, Lithuania outlined its preparations for the implementation of the pact, including planned amendments to the Law on the Legal Status of Aliens. These changes are expected to be submitted to the Seimas during the spring session. Authorities are also working to strengthen operational capacity, including improvements to border checks and procedures.
The discussion also addressed Lithuania’s contribution to the EU solidarity mechanism. The country plans to combine financial contributions with the relocation of applicants for international protection, with an estimated 58 individuals expected to be relocated. According to the Minister, consideration may be given to selecting individuals with existing ties to Lithuania, with a view to supporting integration outcomes.
Integration policies were also discussed, with a focus on facilitating access to employment, particularly in regions experiencing labour shortages. Authorities indicated that this approach could support both integration and reduce onward movement within the EU.
The meeting highlighted the role of the EUAA in supporting national authorities. Lithuania noted the usefulness of the Agency’s operational tools, guidance, and the 2025–2026 operational plan. Based on EUAA methodologies, Lithuania has developed a national contingency plan for migration management.
Future cooperation priorities include additional training for staff and enhanced exchange of practical experience between EU Member States, particularly in areas such as case management systems. A new EUAA liaison officer for Lithuania was also introduced during the meeting.
Lithuanian authorities emphasised the importance of continued EU support in managing migration challenges, including those related to irregular arrivals at the EU’s external borders.
- Ministry of Interior | Lietuvos Respublikos vidaus reikalų ministerija (23 March, 2026), Ministras V. Kondratovičius su Europos prieglobsčio agentūros direktore aptarė aktualius bendradarbiavimo klausimus [Minister V. Kondratovičius discussed current cooperation issues with the Director of the European Asylum Agency],