VILNIUS - President Valdas Adamkus has admitted that his first term in office (1998-2003) was easier than his current tenure.
Jan. 12 marks the midpoint of Adamkus' second term as president. He was sworn in as head-of-state for the second time in the summer of 2004.
"We are currently facing a number of challenges that we did not face during my first tenure," Adamkus told the press. "Mazeikiu Nafta (Mazeikiai Oil) posed a great challenge during my first term of office. Issues related to this company have been tackled during the present term of office as well."
He also admitted he was concerned about corruption.
"The use of EU structural funds arouses concern. There are transparency and corruption-related issues that should not arise. In general, corruption and deep-rooted, insensible bureaucracy are like a bleeding wound. We are still failing to cure it. This is a major headache to me," he said.
