Lithuanian Prime Minister I. Ruginienė recently visited the Vatican, where she met Pope Leo XIV and other representatives of the Holy See, accompanied by a delegation that included her family.
From March 6 to 8, 2023, Lithuanian Prime Minister I. Ruginienė and a delegation, including her family, visited the Vatican for official meetings. During their visit, they met with Pope Leo XIV and other officials from the Holy See. The delegation comprised nine members and was specifically organized to enhance diplomatic relations and discuss matters pertinent to Lithuania's interests with the Vatican.
The Lithuanian government's communication office has highlighted the costs associated with this official visit, which amounted to €8,010 in total. Of this sum, €2,657 covered the airfare, while €5,320 was spent on accommodation. Other minor expenses, including travel insurance, contributed to the overall cost. Interestingly, the price of the return trip using the 'Spartan' aircraft was not included in these expenses, prompting inquiries from the public. The government provided clarifications to address these concerns and explain the budget allocation.
As part of diplomatic protocol, the visit included a formal exchange of gifts between Prime Minister Ruginienė and Pope Leo XIV. According to Ignas Dobrovolskas, Ruginienė's representative, the Prime Minister gifted a work of art related to the capital of Lithuania, indicating a cultural connection and artistic diplomacy. Such gestures are common in high-level diplomatic interactions and symbolize respect and recognition between leaders.
