The meeting recalled the 25th anniversary of the restoration of diplomatic relations between Lithuania and Japan, discussed political, economic, scientific and cultural relations that had strengthened between the two countries in recent years, as well as exchanged views on new opportunities for cooperation.
The Speaker of the Seimas expressed her appreciation that Lithuania and Japan shared mutual trust, common values, and respect for human rights and freedoms. The meeting gave a heavy emphasis on topical foreign policy issues. "Let me stress that we support an active role of Japan in building peace across the world", Mrs Graužinienė said. Moreover, she voiced her concern over the ongoing fighting in Ukraine and expressed her support for the stance of Japan on non-recognition of the annexation of Crimea, introduction of sanctions against Russia and becoming a major donor to Ukraine.
The Speaker of the Seimas, who has focused greatly on Eastern partnership matters during her political activities, invited Japan to join the development cooperation projects undertaken by Lithuania in order to increase their efficiency and visibility. "We always welcome cooperation with other donors and realisation of joint projects. We invite you to join the projects run by us if you find them compatible with Japan's development cooperation policy," the Speaker said.
During the meeting, Loreta Graužinienė invited Tadamori Oshima, Speaker of the House of Representatives of the National Diet of Japan, to visit Lithuania. She also encouraged Japanese businesses to exploit more actively the potential of Lithuania in the areas of tourism, trade, investment and innovation.
The official visit of the delegation under the leadership of the Speaker of the Seimas, Loreta Graužinienė, to Japan on 28 February – 5 March 2016 is organised to mark the 25th anniversary of the restoration of diplomatic relations between Lithuania and Japan.
