“Israel is our strategic partner in the Middle East. The Government is eager to further strengthen cooperation between our countries, which is of great value to us”, noted the Prime Minister, recalling that today marks the 25th anniversary of the dipomatic relations between the two countries.
Saulius Skvernelis noted with appreciation the growing volumes of trade between the two countries, the increase in the number of Israeli tourists in Lithuania as well as successful cooperation in the areas of science, technologies and innovation. He also invited Israeli companies to be more active in investing in Lithuania, calling attention to the sectors of industrial engineering, pharmacy, biotechnologies, medical equipment, food and furniture industries as well as financial and transport services.
“We are interested in cooperation in the areas of cyber and public security, fight against terrorism and State border protection, where Israel boasts extensive experience and probably the best experts”, noted the Prime Minister.
He also highlighted Lithuania’s special relationship with the world Jewish (Litvak) community and expressed his appreciation of its contribution to Lithuania’s statehood. “We have devoted major efforts and attention to the preservation of the Holocaust memory, commemoration of the victims of the Jewish genocide, Holocaust education and the promotion of tolerance in our society, which has reached maturity, developed the ability to face painful subjects and is distinguished for a high level of civic awareness”, stated Mr Skvernelis.
Israel’s Parliamentary Speaker offered his assurances that the relations between the two countries were on the right track and expressed his personal wish to see and learn about potential positive developments in the future. The honorable guest also emphasised the close Lithuanian-Israeli cooperation in the area of security.
