The President said that Lithuania deeply appreciated Japan's support to Lithuania's accession to the OECD. As one of the most highly developed nations in the world, Japan's supporting stand and experience were very valuable not only for improving Lithuania's competitiveness, but also for accomplishing its ambitious pre-accession plan.
President Dalia Grybauskaitė pointed out that Lithuania's membership in the OECD - which brings together economically strong and stable countries - would increase the confidence of international markets in our country, making it more attractive for foreign investment. Membership in the OECD would be greatly beneficial to the Lithuanian economy and business. At the same time, it would signify Lithuania's high international recognition.
The President also underlined that Japan's high business culture was a model to be followed by Lithuanian business people. She invited Japanese investors to actively engage in strengthening bilateral economic and investment ties.
Among the other issues discussed at the meeting were further cooperation in science and innovation, joint research projects in high technologies and life sciences. Japan is an internationally recognized leader in the high-tech sector, while Lithuania is strongly focused on investing in physical and life sciences. Closer and deeper contacts between Lithuanian and Japanese scientists will allow to fully use the potential of both countries in developing and introducing new technologies and will also boost their economic growth and innovation.
Masaaki Yamazaki thanked Lithuania for the support extended during its EU presidency to the process of negotiating the strategic partnership and free trade agreements between the EU and Japan.
It was the first visit of a high level Japanese parliamentary delegation to Lithuania.
