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Ladies and Gentlemen,

It is very symbolic that today I was presented with a new map illustrating what might happen if we fail to suppress the rise of global temperatures to less than 2 degrees. The map clearly shows the size of the challenges we are facing today.  It also proves that climate change is not a regional problem, global solutions are necessary; although the result of the action would not be immediate and easy to trace.

I am pleased to note that climate change is becoming a priority not only in foreign policy; it is also high on the domestic agenda of the Lithuanian government. In spite of the fact, that next month’s Copenhagen summit most probably would not produce a legally binding treaty to tackle global warming, we hope that Copenhagen will result in a strong political commitment to sign a fully articulated agreement later next year.

In this regard, I would like to remind that Lithuania supports the EU’s goal to reach an agreement based on the reduction of emissions by 30 percent in the case of an international deal.  Lithuania, as an EU member state, is ready to contribute to the global climate deal both via our own measures to reduce emissions and via financing.

We have already taken certain steps to develop market mechanisms that would mobilize capital and reduce carbon dioxide emissions in a cost-effective way. Recently, the Climate Change Act has been passed in Lithuanian Parliament; this law sets a duty for operators to use the income from  permit trade solely for environmental projects. Currently, Lithuanian Renewable energy Law is being discussed. I am sure, when passed, it would contribute greatly to the development of sustainable energy in Lithuania. A number of programs have also been launched in order to influence public opinion with regard to the seriousness of the climate threat and the gains that might be made through early adaptation.

The global nature of climate change confirms that there is a strong need to engage other countries in the discussion about climate change, its impacts on the environment, the global economy and social life. Therefore, Lithuania has put climate and environmental issues high on its OSCE and Eastern partnership agenda. By doing so, we underline that there are many benefits to climate action, such as modernisation, increased efficiency of the energy industry and other parts of the economy, reduced pollution, possibilities for technology transfer and research cooperation.  In my opinion, the developments in the Baltic Sea Region could also be a model for its Eastern neighbours, showing that it is possible to be globally competitive while at the same time taking social and environmental dimensions.

I am sure that we, policy makers, should be a driving force behind the decisions that would shape climate policies of our countries.  Let me wish you all success in recognizing and addressing these new challenges.

Thank you!