Lithuanian Prime Minister-designate Proposes Government Program, Relations with China Under Scrutiny

(CNA, Vilnius, July 8) -- Lithuanian Prime Minister-designate Saulius Skvernelis presented the 21st government's policy program to the parliament on July 7, covering key policies in defense, economy, society, and foreign affairs, with relations with China drawing particular attention. The policy program is scheduled for a parliamentary vote on the 14th, after which the new cabinet will be sworn in and officially commence operations.

According to a report by Lithuanian National Radio and Television (LRT), the draft program outlines the new government's commitment to enhancing national resilience, strengthening family policies, promoting income growth, and reducing regional disparities, while setting ambitious goals in defense and energy.

The document also points out that the main challenges include Russia's ongoing aggression, global order instability, climate change, uncertainties in artificial intelligence development, deteriorating demographics, and rising living costs.

According to reports, Skvernelis stated recently that the government will seek a balance between national security and social security, and will continue some policy directions of the previous cabinet led by Prime Minister Inga Ruginiene.

According to the draft, in terms of defense, the government led by Skvernelis pledges to provide funding that meets the military's needs, focusing on strengthening air defense capabilities, drone defense, and the construction of the Baltic defense line. It also plans to complete preparations for the deployment of the German brigade by 2027. Additionally, it will enhance air raid warning and public alert systems and continue to promote military modernization.

In foreign policy, Lithuania will continue to support Ukraine's resistance against Russia while seeking to restore normal diplomatic relations with China. However, the new program no longer mentions maintaining international isolation of Belarus, a slight difference in wording compared to the previous government's policy program.

In economic and social policies, the government intends to alleviate price pressures by increasing incomes and will promote free nutritious lunches for primary school students, increase subsidies for extracurricular education, and provide support for first-time homebuyers.

Infrastructure and energy policies include expanding the national road fund, introducing a modernized toll system, and preventing energy companies from manipulating prices.

In terms of cabinet personnel, Foreign Minister Kestutis Budrys, Defense Minister Robertas Kaunas, Transport Minister Juras Taminskas, and Minister of Economy and Innovation Edvinas Griksas are expected to remain in their positions, while former Prime Minister Inga Ruginiene will return as Minister of Social Security and Labor.

Following the 2024 parliamentary elections in Lithuania, the largest party, the Social Democrats, recently decided to restructure the ruling coalition for the third time, with the Social Democrats, the Democrats "For Lithuania," and the Lithuanian Farmers and Greens Union forming the governing coalition. (Editor: Tang Pei-chun) 1150708

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