Earlier today, Prime Minister Algirdas Butkevičius met with former Singapore’s Minister for Finance and Transport, Lim Hwee Hua and Lithuanian Honorary Consul in Singapore, Andy Lim to discuss the Lithuania-Singapore political and economic relations, cooperation in science and innovations, and possibility for accreditation of Singapore Ambassador to Lithuania.
“Lithuania is inspired by the example of Singapore, which has become one of the major centres of the global economy. The economic transformations happening in your country are truly impressive. We are eager to strengthen our bilateral relations and make the best use of your example”, said the Head of Government commending Mrs Lim for her contribution to the economic development of Singapore.
The Prime Minister also expressed his appreciation for the work done by the Lithuanian Honorary Consul in Singapore in strengthening the bilateral ties. “Lithuania is committed to continue developing the bilateral political dialogue and the economic relations”, said the Prime Minister.
According to the Prime Minister, the Government makes great efforts to build a favourable investment environment, including free economic zones, financial and scientific centres, skilled labour force, etc.
The Prime Minister noted Lithuania’s aspiration to become by 2020 a European hub of health sciences and biotechnologies. “We are interested in strengthening cooperation in science and innovation. Today, Lithuania has everything required for innovative product development. Our country leads the European Union in terms of population with higher education, while Lithuanian scientists have a world reputation for marked scientific achievements. There are five science and business valleys, ten science and technology parks, there are talented business operators, managers. We allocated hundreds of millions of euros for science valleys in the last financial period”, said the Head of Government.
The Prime Minister was pleased that the visitors from Singapore would have an opportunity to see the mentioned infrastructure at the life sciences and innovation exhibition “Life Sciences Baltics”.
It was also noted in the meeting that the Lithuania-Singapore relations might benefit through the appointment of Singapore’s Ambassador to Lithuania. For its part, Lithuania has its accredited Ambassador Egidijus Meilūnas residing in Japan.