United States and Lithuania Sign Memorandum of Understanding on Critical Minerals

Washington, Sept. 17 (KUNA) — U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Lithuanian Foreign Minister Kestutis Budris signed a memorandum of understanding on a framework for bilateral cooperation on critical minerals on Thursday.

Speaking at the signing ceremony at the U.S. Department of State, Rubio said the memorandum “highlights the strong cooperation and partnership between the United States and Lithuania.” He emphasized that “securing supplies and processing of critical minerals is essential, as it is vital to our economy as well as our defense.”

Rubio noted that Lithuania “is a global leader in photonics (light technologies) and a major player in this field. Therefore, the rigorous screening of investments that protects this sector is highly positive.” He added that Lithuania and the United States “will jointly identify priority projects and mobilize efforts from both the public and private sectors to finance them within six months.”

The U.S. Secretary of State expressed his anticipation of “the remarkable achievements we will accomplish in partnership regarding this vital component of both economic and national security.” He also pointed out that Lithuania’s upcoming assumption of the rotating presidency of the Council of the European Union signifies a presidency by “a country that places economic security at the top of its priorities.”

For his part, Budris stressed that the issue of critical minerals “is the second most important priority in our foreign policy, after direct defense security.” He added, “We aim to address challenges in the fields of economy and economic security and to build a strategic partnership with the United States — as the leading global power — to establish strong and resilient supply chains.” He expressed his expectation that “this step will yield major projects that enhance security and prosperity in our countries.” (End)