Speeches

Speech by H.E. Valdas Adamkus, President of the Republic of Lithuania, at Annual General Meeting of the British Chamber of Commerce in Lithuania and Tenth Anniversary Reception

Mr. Ambassador,
Ladies and gentlemen!

I am delighted to be here today and extend my congratulations to all of you who have gathered to celebrate the Tenth Anniversary of the British Chamber of Commerce in Lithuania. Your association can be justly proud of being among the most active foreign chambers of commerce in Lithuania. This is best confirmed by the fact that it presently unites representatives from more than 120 businesses from Great Britain, Lithuania and international enterprises.

The role played by associations like yours has become more important than ever in today's environment of economic uncertainty and pessimism. However, I would like to point out that every crisis also means an opportunity. This is especially true of business organizations which in times of slowdown can not only test the decisions made, but also reconsider their investments and adapt to new demands. I believe that all of you who have gathered here today are doing just that.

At present, international trade and direct investment flows have decreased among many nations. But I have no doubt that those who will be the first to find new business and investment opportunities, better use their resources and respond to altered market conditions will also be the first to benefit from economic recovery.

We are members of the EU single market. It has given us real benefits, broadened our economic horizons and opportunities. I would say that the present economic slowdown is a good opportunity to re-evaluate the advantages offered by the common market and by such countries like Lithuania. I have in mind here not only Lithuania's convenient geographic position which allows to combine its presence in the common market and the benefits of having third countries close at hand, but also our hard-working and highly qualified people and Lithuania's openness to foreign investments. I invite you to think about it and take advantage of our business environment.

We seek to be among the first countries back on the track of economic growth, ready to continue our ten-year race toward EU economic standards. However, we understand that this will be possible only if we retain Lithuania's financial stability and attract more business people willing to work and invest in Lithuania. It is only through streamlined business efforts to realize its objectives and meet the changing market needs that we can expect to achieve economic recovery.

I honestly believe that you, representatives of the business community who have always been flexible in your approach to new economic realities and challenges, will be the driving force behind success and competition in local and foreign markets. I believe in your enterprising skills and spirit and I am sure that the present economic situation will strengthen your creative talent, which will manifest itself in the successful development of your businesses. I would like to once again thank the British Chamber of Commerce in Lithuania for the excellent work it has accomplished in uniting and promoting economic ties between our two countries.

Valdas Adamkus
President of the Republic of Lithuania