27-01-2025

Minister V. Kondratovič met with U.S. Ambassador K. C. McDonald

Minister of the Interior Vladislav Kondratovič met with the U.S. Ambassador to Lithuania, Kara C. McDonald. During the meeting, key cooperation issues were discussed, and priorities and challenges in the field of internal affairs were presented.

The minister thanked the U.S. Embassy for its mediation and the U.S. government for its significant expert and material support.

"The role of the U.S. in ensuring the security of our state, the region, and at the same time the eastern flank of the EU and NATO is crucial. We are grateful for the support, which helps strengthen border protection, improve migration management, and ensure public safety," said Minister V. Kondratovič.

V. Kondratovič, expressing condolences for the victims of the fires raging in Los Angeles, invited the U.S. Ambassador to inform him if Lithuanian firefighters’ assistance would be helpful in this situation.

The minister presented the new Lithuanian Government's priorities in the field of internal affairs, emphasizing the strengthening of civil protection and crisis management, as well as ensuring public safety. He highlighted the improvement of law enforcement agencies' working conditions, strengthening the protection of the external border, and effective migration management to address both national and European Union challenges. Minister V. Kondratovič also presented plans to streamline regional policy by establishing a Ministry of Regions and improving the civil service by strengthening competencies and attracting talent. A horizontal priority remains Lithuania's support for Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression.

The meeting also discussed the possibility of signing a memorandum of understanding with the U.S. Department of Energy’s National Nuclear Security Administration, which would help ensure more effective bilateral efforts in combating the illegal transport of CBRN (chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear) materials.