The European Investment Bank (EIB) is lending €100mn to Klaipeda State Seaport Authority for infrastructure projects designed to strengthen Lithuania’s largest port as a centre for defence logistics, renewable energy and international trade, EIB announced on September 15.

Klaipeda is Lithuania’s only major seaport and an increasingly important gateway for Nato military mobility, offshore wind development and national energy security. The investments will also improve the port’s competitiveness while expanding infrastructure that can serve both civilian and defence requirements.

The EIB loan will cover up to half of the programme’s estimated €201mn cost. The remainder will be financed from EU and Lithuanian sources and by other institutions. All the planned work is scheduled for completion by the end of 2027.

Part of Klaipeda’s civilian cruise terminal will be adapted to Nato standards, allowing allied naval vessels to receive more efficient logistical support. The dual-use development is intended to enhance military mobility without reducing the terminal’s commercial and tourism functions.

The wider programme includes shore-side electricity connections for ferries, green-hydrogen production and refuelling infrastructure, low-emission port vessels, dredging and stronger breakwaters.

Quays will also be upgraded to support the deployment and maintenance of offshore wind farms. Klaipeda forms part of the EU’s core Trans-European Transport Network.

“Few projects illustrate Europe's priorities as clearly as the Port of Klaipeda,” EIB Vice-President Karl Nehammer said. “It is an investment that directly contributes to the missions of supporting European security and cohesion, while aligning with the green transition.”

Klaipeda port Director General Algis Latakas said the agreement would support projects ranging from the dual-use cruise terminal and shore-power facilities to investments improving the port’s resilience.

“The financing agreement signed today with the EIB is an important step forward for the port’s development,” he said, independent news agency BNS reported.