A government panel says that the contract between Lithuanian Railways (LTG) and Belarus’ potash manufacturer Belaruskali poses a threat to Lithuania’s national security.
The special commission vetting deals of strategic importance was asked to assess the 2018 agreement by Transport Minister Marius Skuodis. It was amended in October to allow Belaruskali make advance payments for transportation of its cargo past the introduction of US sanctions.
“The commission decided that the 2018 contract between Belaruskali and Lithuanian Railways on freight transportation by railway, as well as the amendments to the contract made in October, did not meet national security interests,” the government said in a statement.
However, the Lithuanian government will have to make the final decision. If the Cabinet decides that the contract clashes with Lithuania’s national security, this will give basis to terminate the transit contract.
Signed in 2018, the contract is valid until the end of 2023. Some 11 million tons of Belarusian fertilizers are transported via Lithuania to the port of Klaipeda every year under this contract. (LRT/Business World Magazine)
