The Speaker of the Seimas underlined the importance of inter-parliamentary co-operation and warmly recalled her recent visit to Japan in the framework of commemoration of the 25th anniversary of resumption of diplomatic relations between Lithuania and Japan. For his part, the Vice-Speaker of the House of Representatives of Japan highlighted that Lithuania and Japan adhered to the very important common values of democracy, human rights and the rule of law.
A mention was made of the contribution of the Japanese diplomat, Chiune Sugihara, to the strengthening and continuity of the bilateral relations between Lithuania and Japan. “We are bound by the actions and doings of Chiune Sugihara, a noble person. This proves once again that noble deeds of a single person may join two nations in the course of history and inspire us to continue our cooperation,” said Mrs Graužinienė.
The Japanese guests stressed the potential for cooperation in connection with tourism. The last year, as compared to the previous year, was referred to as the period that had seen a 45 % rise in the number of Japanese tourists visiting Lithuania. Mr Kawabata said that the film about Chiune Sugihara, which came out in December 2015, would attract even more tourists to Lithuania.
The Speaker of the Seimas pointed out that the cooperation was active in the area of science and education. “Young people are the most active and curious part of society. They are particularly interested in innovations and advanced solutions. It is therefore important to enable as many young Lithuanians and Japanese as possible to establish bilateral contacts through science and education,” said Mrs Graužinienė.
As regards the bilateral cooperation between young people, the representatives of the Japanese delegation drew the attention to their awareness of the popularity of basketball in Lithuania and suggested to the Speaker of the Seimas that the international basketball match between Japan and Lithuania was organised. Mrs Graužinienė agreed that the proposal was worth considering and promised to refer it to responsible persons.
