Minister Kondratovič Visits Poland: Strengthening Cooperation and Consultations on the Establishment of the Ministry of Regions
Minister of the Interior Vladislav Kondratovič visited Poland on a working visit, where he met with Minister of the Interior and Administration Tomasz Siemoniak and Minister of Funds and Regional Policy Katarzyna Pelczynska-Nalecz.
During the visit, discussions focused on cooperation in the areas of migration, border security, and responses to hybrid threats. Particular attention was given to the establishment of a new Ministry of Regions, as outlined in the new Lithuanian Government’s program. The implementation of the Lithuania-Poland cross-border cooperation program (INTERREG) was also discussed, with an emphasis on addressing current security challenges and strengthening civil protection.
In the meeting with Minister of Funds and Regional Policy K. Pelczynska-Nalecz, Lithuania’s ambitions to establish a separate Ministry of Regions were presented. The Polish minister affirmed that this decision had proven successful for Poland and expressed readiness to share knowledge and experience with Lithuania.
"As we establish the Ministry of Regions, we will draw on Poland’s best practices and experience in this field. Lithuania’s regional development requires greater attention and support from the central government. Strong regions are the foundation of a strong and resilient state," said Minister V. Kondratovič.
The ministers also discussed the ongoing implementation of the INTERREG Lithuania-Poland cross-border cooperation program. Minister V. Kondratovič emphasized that political support is crucial for the program’s successful execution. Currently, five strategic projects are being implemented in the fields of border management, civil protection, connectivity, and tourism development, with more than €30 million allocated from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).
Minister V. Kondratovič stressed the importance of ensuring an appropriate investment pace and avoiding the risk of unspent funds. Furthermore, he highlighted the need to seek new flexible financing mechanisms or adapt existing instruments to address specific challenges in EU external border regions.
As Poland assumes the Presidency of the EU Council, Minister V. Kondratovič, in his meeting with Minister of the Interior and Administration T. Siemoniak, noted that Poland’s identified priorities align with Lithuania’s interests. He reaffirmed Lithuania’s commitment to being a constructive partner, actively supporting Poland in achieving its presidency goals.
“Lithuania and Poland face the same geopolitical challenges and threat landscape. Therefore, we must act together – strengthening border security, enhancing civil protection capabilities, and building resilience against hybrid attacks. Close regional cooperation is the foundation of our shared security,” said Minister V. Kondratovič.
“The relationship between Poland and Lithuania is a model of effective cooperation. Our countries share common goals and values. We are neighbors, NATO allies, and EU members. Poland and Lithuania play a crucial role in the security of NATO’s eastern flank. Cooperation in the field of security is now the cornerstone of our relations and a significant contribution to Europe’s stability,” said Minister Tomasz Siemoniak.
The European Commission’s Communication on the weaponization of migration was also discussed – a document that recognizes hybrid attacks using illegal migration as a direct threat to the national security of EU member states. Minister V. Kondratovič welcomed this document and emphasized that Lithuania’s national measures and legal regulations align with its principles while remaining open to further legal refinements.