In his annual address, President Gitanas Nausėda clearly outlined Lithuania’s geopolitical directions and priorities. The speech emphasized the need to strengthen national security and contribute to collective defense within NATO. The Investors’ Forum – an association that unites the largest and most active investors in Lithuania’s economy – consistently highlights that national security is the country’s top priority, without which prosperity and economic growth cannot be achieved. Thus, the President, along with the business community and society at large, speaks the same language.

The President underscored Lithuania’s important role in the region, emphasizing that our country is a fortress with an even stronger wall – both physical and spiritual – where the security of Lithuania and of Europe remains a core value.

Importantly, the speech identified concrete steps: from increased defense funding, strengthening infrastructure, and developing the defense industry, to closer cooperation with NATO allies. A clear commitment was expressed to bolster the country’s defense and to pursue sustainable security guarantees – not only through words, but through concrete actions. We view this position as a positive signal to the international investor community.

Another key topic was economic growth and innovation. The President spoke about the need to promote high value-added industries, create a competitive business environment, and implement innovations that will ensure long-term growth and national well-being. The Investors’ Forum welcomes this approach to business, as long-term economic growth and stability are essential factors for maintaining Lithuania’s competitiveness and ensuring the welfare of its people.

The Investors’ Forum agrees that reforms to the tax system must be carefully considered in order to maintain growth and strike a balance between social needs and economic prosperity. We fully support the notion that one of the resources for replenishing state and municipal budgets should be the efficiency of the public sector.

The President’s speech highlighted the importance of dialogue between business and government as a necessary element in achieving economic growth and societal well-being. It is an invitation to mutual cooperation that will help find sustainable and balanced solutions in both social and economic policy. The business community welcomes these discussions and an active dialogue to contribute to the long-term development of the country.

We also heard a call to address human rights issues in Lithuania, particularly regarding the Partnership Law. The President’s call to take action and ensure the protection of human rights and the legalization of civil partnerships was an important step in bringing attention to this current and relevant issue. This appeal reflects a changing mindset in Lithuania and marks a significant step forward in strengthening the country’s commitments to human rights and equality.

Overall, the President’s speech conveyed a strong position that tax reforms and other decisions must contribute to the country’s growth. By reinforcing the foundations of the economy and ensuring transparent dialogue, Lithuania can strive for even greater success, creating better conditions for businesses and all its citizens.

Commentary by Vytautas Šilinskas, Executive Director of the Investors’ Forum Association