Lithuanian Prime Minister calls Phanar exarchate support for Ukrainians in country

Patriarch Bartholomew and Lithuanian Prime Minister Inga Ruginienė. Photo: Orthodoxia News Agency

On June 8, 2026, Lithuanian Prime Minister Inga Ruginene held a meeting with Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew who arrived in the country for a visit. The head of the Cabinet of Ministers thanked the guest for his attention to the Lithuanian Orthodox community, reports Fos Fanariou.

The parties discussed practical issues of the Phanar exarchate's work in the republic and the importance of supporting Ukraine. Ruginene stated that the restoration of this structure several years ago gave believers the opportunity to practice religion according to their convictions.

The Prime Minister emphasized that the exarchate's activities have special significance in the context of the war in Ukraine. In her opinion, such an alternative is important not only for Ukrainians in Lithuania but also for all other religious communities.

The head of government noted that the principles of religious freedom are enshrined in the Constitution and are important to the authorities. Ruginene expressed gratitude to Patriarch Bartholomew for condemning military actions and providing constant support to the Ukrainian people.

The participants of the meeting discussed how the exarchate operates and the day-to-day tasks of the parishes. The Lithuanian Prime Minister welcomed the election of the new exarch, Bishop Panaretos of Tamassos, and called this step an important event for the community's life. She noted that the authorities will continue dialogue with the Phanar leadership on all relevant issues.

As the UOJ reported, Patriarch Bartholomew presented the new exarch Bishop Panaretos in Vilnius, noting his perfect knowledge of the Russian language and ability to conduct services in ancient Church Slavonic according to the Slavonic Typikon.

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