LITHUANIA, February 1 – On January 31, Prime Minister Ingrida Šimonytė met Jose W. Fernandez, US Undersecretary for Economic Growth, Energy and Environment, to discuss growing economic and trade cooperation between Lithuania and the United States, China’s economic pressure on Lithuania and regional security.

“The growing trade and economic relations between Lithuania and the United States open up vast opportunities for countries and businesses. As Western democracies face increasing challenges from authoritarian regimes, including illegitimate economic pressure tactics, it is important that our countries exchange information and broaden and deepen our bilateral economic cooperation. Particular priority should be given to countries that have a similar legal framework, which protect property rights and value freedom of expression,” said Ingrida Šimonytė.

The parties also discussed opportunities to promote US investment and trade relations, as well as cooperation with US bank EXIM.

Another item on the agenda of the meeting with the US Undersecretary was the security situation in Europe. Ingrida Šimonytė noted that the destabilizing actions of Russia and the reinforcement of Russian troops in Belarus and on the borders of Ukraine call for ever closer mobilization and unity on the part of the allies.