Erdogan and Lithuania premier discuss defense, bilateral ties

Türkiye’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Lithuanian Prime Minister Mindaugas Sinkevicius discussed bilateral relations, defense cooperation and regional developments during a phone conversation on Monday, according to Türkiye’s Communications Directorate.

Defense cooperation takes priority

Erdogan congratulated Sinkevicius on assuming the Lithuanian premiership last month and expressed confidence that relations between Türkiye and Lithuania could advance further.

The Turkish president highlighted the importance of increasing contacts between Ankara and Vilnius across different sectors in the coming period, with defense industry cooperation identified as a particular priority.

Türkiye stresses peace efforts

The Russia-Ukraine war was also addressed during the conversation. Erdogan said Türkiye remains engaged in efforts aimed at bringing the conflict to an end through a durable peace settlement.

Ankara has repeatedly emphasized diplomacy and dialogue in its approach to the war, while seeking to maintain communication with the parties involved and support initiatives aimed at reducing regional tensions.

Lithuania prepares for EU presidency

Erdogan also conveyed his best wishes to Lithuania ahead of its upcoming presidency of the Council of the European Union, which is scheduled to begin in January.

The exchange comes as Türkiye and Lithuania look to maintain cooperation within a broader European security environment, with defense ties and regional developments among the issues shaping their bilateral agenda.