The Lithuanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced the opening of an honorary consulate in Altena, a significant industrial and innovation region in Northwestern Germany that has strong partnership ties with Lithuania. Ambassador Giedrius Puodžiūnas expressed gratitude towards former honorary consul Jurgen Gramke during the ribbon-cutting ceremony and wished success to the newly appointed honorary consul Andreas Hollstein.

The establishment of the consulate is viewed as a crucial step in enhancing economic and cultural relations between Lithuania and the German regions of North Rhine-Westphalia, Lower Saxony, and Bremen. By reinforcing these connections, both countries aim to promote further cooperation in various sectors including trade, culture, and social relations. The consulate is located in a historic 13th-century building, symbolizing a long-standing connection to the region.

Currently, there are five honorary consuls representing Lithuania in Germany, each appointed by the Minister of Foreign Affairs to carry out consular functions, promote economic and cultural cooperation, and perform other duties as designated by the Ministry. This move is expected to facilitate closer bilateral ties and contribute to the integration of Lithuania within the European Union's economic landscape.