Baltic States – CIS, Belarus, Energy, Energy Market, Lithuania, Nuclear Power

He also said the issue is not easy in an attempt to secure support of the international community. Linkevicius also downplayed the difference of opinion on Astravyes with Energy Minister Zygimantas Vaiciunas.

"We've had a lot of communication with other states but since interests vary and some opposing sides are trying to present it as a political problem, not a purely technical safety issue, they say it's been invented and is artificial," Linkevicius told the public Lithuanian Radio on Tuesday, adding that internal disputes are undermining Lithuania's position.

"The truth is that often when we need to be united, we are divided, contradict each other and sometimes spout unfounded accusations. It, naturally, undermines our position, and we need to raise issues both internationally and also speak with a complicated neighbor, which is not easy," the minister said.

Speaking of their different positions with Vaiciunas, the foreign minister said there are ongoing discussions on many issues within the government but not all of them are made public.

"I believe it's normal to have a variety of opinions, especially on such a complicated issue. But I wouldn’t make a drama out of the situation as we will eventually come to a decision," Linkevicius said.

Linkevicius has earlier criticized the compromise version proposed by Vaiciunas as under this agreement, Latvia and Estonia does not commit not to buy electricity from Astravyets but supports Lithuania's plans to do so.

Vaiciunas says the reached draft agreement stipulating the creation of an origin guarantee system and import taxes but not committing Latvia to anything is already sufficient for the implementation of the so-called "anti-Astravyets" law in Lithuania.