China means opportunity

VILNIUS - On April 26, Prime Minister Andrius Kubilius took part in the China-Central Europe Summit in Warsaw (Poland) to discuss closer economic and political cooperation, the government said in a statement, reports ELTA. In his speech, Kubilius pointed out the vast investment opportunities in the dynamic region of Eastern Europe and the Baltics and called on government leaders to continue together actively developing trade with China.
The PM also noted that along with the Chinese investment in infrastructure, IT and the energy sector, Lithuania expects more opportunities for businesses to invest and operate in China. According to Kubilius, participation in the global economy means new jobs in the region.

Furthermore, he pointed out the most successful Lithuanian investment in China: Jonas Kazlauskas’ contribution to China’s basketball and overall sports. “Not only do we share our experiences, but also learn a lot about each other. This must be used to expand our multilateral economic relations,” said Kubilius.
According to Kubilius, China and the EU have pursued similar issues: creating enough jobs for millions of citizens and securing stable long-term growth opportunities in the new, 21st century economy.

“Lithuania, during her EU presidency in the second half of 2013, will take into account these circumstances. Our experience in addressing energy challenges or reforming the management of the Lithuanian economy will undoubtedly contribute to this end,” said the prime minister.

Last year, Lithuania’s exports to China doubled, reaching 200 million litas (58 million euros). The total trade turnover with China, including all the 16 countries participating in the Summit, amounts to 155 billion litas, which accounts for one tenth of the total EU-Chinese trade.