Õnnitluskiri LT ministrile

Laurynas Kasčiūnas

Ministry of National Defence

Republic of Lithuania 28.03.2024 no 9-7/24/67

Dear Laurynas, (käsitsi)

Please accept my warm congratulations on your recent appointment as the Minister of National

Defence of Lithuania. I wish you every success in this demanding position.

Estonia and Lithuania share a special bond of mutual understanding, which is an excellent basis for

close bilateral and multilateral cooperation in various frameworks. During the full-scale war in

Ukraine, the Baltic states have showcased their unity and have rallied together in an unprecedented

manner to support Ukraine. While the situation in Ukraine is critical at the moment, I am confident

we can count on Lithuania’s continued support to help Ukraine win this war.

In recent years more than ever before, we have also worked together to improve our collective

defence. I am very glad that the Baltic defence cooperation – a framework that is crucial in amplifying

our regional security – is as strong and effective as ever.

However, a lot of work remains to be done. In the upcoming months and years, our focus must be on

the reinforcement of NATO’s defence posture on its Eastern Flank. This includes the construction of

the Baltic defence line, ensuring the interoperability of the Baltic defence forces and increased

capability development.

Dear Colleague, I look forward to working with you and I am happy to extend you an invitation to

visit Estonia at a time most suitable for you. Please accept the assurances of my highest consideration.

Yours sincerely, Hanno Pevkur Minister