Lithuania-India Dialogue: Strengthening Bilateral Ties and Addressing Security Challenges
During his visit to New Delhi for the international conference Raisina Dialogue 2025, the Political Director of the Lithuanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Laimonas Talat-Kelpša, together with Lithuania’s Ambassador to India, Diana Mickevičienė, met with Shri Shashi Tharoor, Chairman of the Committee on External Affairs of the Lok Sabha. The meeting focused on bilateral relations, geopolitical challenges, and international policy issues.
Mr. Talat-Kelpša reaffirmed Lithuania’s commitment to strengthening ties with India, proposing to designate 2025-2026 as the Year of Lithuania-India People-to-People Ties to highlight the historical connections between the two nations. He also suggested establishing an India-Baltic Inter-Parliamentary Friendship Group to foster deeper cooperation.
A significant part of the discussion centred on the security situation in the region and Russia’s war against Ukraine. Mr. Talat-Kelpša emphasized that Ukraine’s survival and success are essential not only for regional stability but also for upholding the broader international security framework. He underscored the importance of strengthening Ukraine’s defence capabilities, enhancing humanitarian aid, and ensuring a long-term deterrence policy in Europe. Dr. Talat-Kelpša also introduced the Lithuanian-Icelandic demining coalition, which plays a key role in Ukraine’s reconstruction efforts.