Director of the Vilnius Office of Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, Dzianis Kuchynski, discussed with representatives of the Lithuanian authorities issues affecting Belarusians in Lithuania. On September 9–10, he held meetings with Lithuanian President’s Foreign Policy Adviser Donatas Augilis and Seimas Deputy Speaker Viktorija Čmilytė-Nielsen.
One of the topics was a possible restriction on bus services with Belarus and Russia. Lithuania is discussing the possibility of introducing restrictions from 2027, following Latvia’s example. The meetings addressed how to prevent such measures from affecting Belarusians.
The sides also discussed access for Belarusians to Lithuanian language courses. It was noted that there are many people willing to learn the language and take part in life in Lithuania, but there are not enough places on the courses.
The preparation for a possible release of political prisoners and their transfer to Lithuania was also discussed. Kuchynski thanked the Lithuanian side for assistance with documents and the legalization of Belarusians who have already been released.
Another topic was the situation at the European Humanities University. Kuchynski presented his vision to Lithuanian partners of possible support for EHU amid the crisis.
The participants also discussed the security of Lithuania and the region, the military and political situation in Belarus, and the risks of Russia using its territory for aggression against neighboring countries. Following the meetings, the sides noted that they shared the same assessment of the situation.
In addition, Kuchynski discussed possible formats for the participation of Belarusian representatives in events during Lithuania’s presidency of the Council of the EU and the need to keep the Belarusian issue on the European Union’s agenda.
“We know about the problems Belarusians face in Lithuania. And our task is to resolve them wherever possible. It is important to us that Belarusians in Lithuania can learn the language, receive an education and participate in the country’s life. We see that discussions on various restrictions are expected in the Seimas in the autumn, and that is why we are already actively working with partners to communicate our position and protect the interests of Belarusians”, Kuchynski said.
