Lithuania's Balcytis giving up MEP mandate

VILNIUS – Lithuania's MEP Zigmantas Balcytis has decided to give up his mandate to pursue an international career, the politician confirmed to BNS.

"Life delivered a yet another unexpected challenge – I received an invitation to join an international organization where I will have to spend part of my time in Europe and in the US. The field of operations is economy of world countries, finances, forecast and simulation," said the Social Democratic politician.

Under the Social Democratic Party's list, Balcytis' slot in the European Parliament should be filled by Gediminas Kirkilas, the incumbent parliamentary vice-speaker, while the latter should be replaced by Bronius Bradauskas.

Balcytis also announced his plans to leave the race for chairman of the Lithuanian Social Democratic Party.