P-003260/2021
Answer given by Ms Johansson
on behalf of the European Commission (23.8.2021)
As regards operational support, Lithuania has requested assistance from the European Border and Coast Guard Agency (Frontex) and the European Asylum Support Office (EASO). Following a request on 2 June 2021, the first deployment of European Border and Coast Guard teams by Frontex started. Moreover, also following a request from Lithuania, Frontex and Lithuania signed an operational plan on rapid border intervention that started on 15 July 2021. The deployment of border guards and technical equipment is ongoing. Additionally, EASO and Lithuania signed an operating plan on 15 July 2021, which includes support in processing of asylum applications, support to the reception system, training for national authorities and interpretation. The EU Agency for Law Enforcement Cooperation (Europol) has also decided on the rapid deployment of Europol Guest Officers, as well as a member of the European Migrant Smuggling Centre.
In terms of EU financial support, the Commission is in contact with the Lithuanian authorities to examine the needs and ways to address them under the Home Affairs funds, taking into account the budgetary availability and the entry into force of the instruments for 2021-2027. For this period, it is envisaged that Lithuania will receive an allocation for its National Programmes under both the Integrated Border Management Fund and the Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund. The national programmes can support national investments at the external borders with Belarus, material aid and reception for asylum seekers. The Commission has also invited Lithuania to submit an application for emergency assistance under the Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund.
© European Union, 2021 – EP