June 17, Pozirk. Lithuanian MPs voted 123 to two with one abstention on June 16 to approve the first reading of amendments that provide for a possibility of national economic sanctions against Belarus and Russia, Delfi reported.
The amendments are seen as a safeguard should the European Union not prolong its own sanctions.
The Seimas is expected to debate the second reading later this week.
Presenting the bill, Foreign Minister Kęstutis Budrys said Lithuania must have alternative ways to put pressure on Russia and Belarus. Soon it will be clear if it needs them, he said, citing multiple events this summer for Europe to consider sanctions against the two countries.
The amendments tabled by the foreign office would let the government make lists of people and companies subject to sanctions, freeze their assets and impose sectoral restrictions.
If the Seimas backs the proposal, it may take effect on August 1.
