A Rugged Ally and a Flourishing Partnership: Germany and Lithuania Stand Firm
Lithuania views Germany as crucial now more than ever.
Positioned strategically, Lithuania's need for protection against potential Russian aggression necessitates a robust alliance. With Kaliningrad to the south and Belarus to the east, Lithuania and Germany have grown closer than ever, as the German military establishes a permanent presence in the Baltic country. This alliance reaches beyond military partnership, delving into economic cooperation.
Dominic Otto, the deputy managing director of the German-Baltic Chamber of Commerce, has witnessed this alliance unfold over almost two decades in Vilnius. The deployment of the Panzer Brigade 45, the first large unit in German history to be stationed abroad, left a lasting impression when hundreds of German soldiers took up position on Cathedral Square in Vilnius in late May.
Politics and Unwavering Support
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, in a speech during the deployment ceremony, underscored Germany's commitment to Lithuania and the NATO eastern flank. He equated the defense of Lithuania with that of Berlin, providing a strong signal of support. Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda, in turn, pledged mutual trust and solidarity.
These assurances have resonated with the Lithuanian public, as many perceive the support of the United States as less certain. In this context, Germany is increasingly seen as a reliable and essential partner, particularly as the military presence grows.
Economic Ties and Friendship
In various discussions with Lithuanian officials, Otto has found a strong interest in bolstering economic, cultural, and tourist ties. The economic interdependence between the two countries strengthens the belief that Germany will stand by Lithuania in times of crisis.
Lithuania, an open market eager for foreign investment, has seen significant investments from Germany in the defense industry, as well as in mechanical engineering, IT, fintech, biotechnology, and energy infrastructure. For Lithuania, the focus in the energy sector is on sustainability and reducing dependence on Russian energy sources.
Lithuania's recent disconnection from the Russian power grid in February 2025, shifting to the Western European continental network, marks an important step towards sovereignty.
Andrea Sellmann interviewed Dominic Otto, providing further insights on the economic relationship between Germany and Lithuania in the ntv podcast "Wirtschaft Welt & Weit".
A Glimpse into the Future
What does Germany's role look like in the evolving global economic landscape? Which countries will benefit from this shift, and on what will Germany rely? These questions, along with many others, are addressed in the ntv podcast "Economy World & Wide," featuring experts who shed light on these topics and more.
All episodes are available on the ntv app, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, Deezer, and through an RSS feed for other podcast apps.
Sources* Lithuania* Friedrich Merz* Bundeswehr
Community policy discussions in the general-news sphere have been echoed along with Lithuania's partnership with Germany, with both countries emphasizing employment opportunities as a significant aspect of their alliance. The German-Baltic Chamber of Commerce, led by Deputy Managing Director Dominic Otto, is actively working to foster economic cooperation between the two countries, particularly in industries such as defense, mechanical engineering, IT, fintech, biotechnology, and energy infrastructure.
As Lithuania continues to prioritize sustainability and reduce its dependence on Russian energy sources, the employment policy between the two nations could play a crucial role in shaping their economic ties and the global energy landscape. In the evolving global economic landscape, Germany's continued support for Lithuania may prove beneficial for both countries and other nations that are part of this growing alliance.
