Lithuanian Government approves Linas Linkevičius' candidacy as ambassador to Belarus

On Wednesday, the Cabinet decided to propose a relevant decree to the president. If appointed, Linkevičius would take the position as of 24 July.

Linkevičius would replace Edminas Bagdonas who assumed the position in 2007.

Linkevičius currently serves as ambassador-at-large and provides advice to Lithuanian Prime Minister Andrius Kubilius on a voluntary basis.

Last August, he was recalled from the ambassadorial position to NATO after serving in the post since 2005. He headed the Lithuanian mission at NATO and the Western European Union in 1997-2000.

Between 2000 and 2004, Linkevičius served as Lithuania's defense minister.

In Lithuania, ambassadors are appointed and dismissed by the president in response to proposition from the government and with approval from the Foreign Affairs Committee.