News

On 19 and 20 November, Lithuanian political consultations with Bosnia and Herzegovina and Serbia on the European Union issues were held in Sarajevo and Belgrade.

Director of the Department of the European Union of Lithuanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs Vidmantas Purlys, who participated in consultations, noted that the success of current Lithuanian investment in Serbia and Bosnia and Herzegovina and attractive business environment is a good sign for other investors and a deeper economic cooperation of these countries.

“The priority of Lithuanian policy in Western Balkans region is the creation of favourable conditions for business. In order to achieve this, bilateral agreements are signed, political contacts are being developed, specific projects are held in the EU integration experience transmission area”, said V. Purlys during the meetings with the Lithuanian business community.

At the meetings with Bosnia and Herzegovina’s and Serbia's officials the possibilities to organize business forums in these countries next year were discussed. It was proposed to Bosnia and Herzegovina’s and Serbia's Ministries of Agriculture officials and interested businessmen to arrange a visit to Lithuania in order to present Lithuanian experience in modernizing country's economy and attracting foreign investments.

Bosnia and Herzegovina was encouraged to sign, and Serbia - to ratify with Lithuania the agreements for the avoidance of double taxation.

Lithuanian delegation supported the European Commission's progress report issued on 5 November on Bosnia and Herzegovina’s and Serbia's progress and encouraged both sides to continue reforms for an integration to the EU.

“Serbia could become an EU candidate country in 2009, if all requirements of the EU are implemented. Bosnia and Herzegovina's EU membership process can be faster if there is an agreement on the development and the necessary reforms are taken”, said V.Purlys.

Lithuania has submitted concrete proposals on the transmission of Lithuanian experience in the EU- support management, public administration reform and civil society dialogue.