Address at the Business Forum, Grand Hall of the Vilnius Town Hall, 25 October 2022

Mr. President,
Ladies and Gentlemen,

I am delighted to be with you here in this iconic building. Since the fifteenth century, Vilnius Town Hall is located at the heart of trade and business. Throughout its long history, itsSquare and adjacent streets have welcomed countless foreign representatives, merchants and trade events, including the famous Kaziuko mugė, Saint Casimir’s Fair,

This openness to the world and dynamism are typical for both our nations. Lithuania and Belgium lie at the crossroads between countries and regions. We are the first to feel the effects of international events, such as trade slowing down or being restricted (by sanctions). But our central position also brings us opportunities. 

As we are reminded in these turbulent times, trade is a barometer for welfare. Trade volumes echo the relations with our neighbouring countries and, in a globalized world, with the international community. When we are faced with uncertainty or conflict, confidence drops and trade slows down. Vice versa, flourishing commercial ties reflect understanding, consensus and, eventually, prosperity for all our citizens.

The Lithuanian and Belgian companies that are present here build their activities on the solid ground of our bilateral relations. This Forum will allow us to identify common ways to foster green energy, biopharma, technology, logistics and services, making our countries more resilient.

We also share many challenges: rising conflicts, disinformation and cyberattacks, high energy prices, vulnerable supply chains and the skills gap on the labour market, to name a few. These confront our governments, companies and families alike. At the same time, they encourage us to find innovative solutions.

Mr President,
Ladies and Gentlemen,

The transition of your country to a free market economy, and its accession to the European Union, to NATO and the United Nations truly marked a new era for Lithuania. As we speak, our economies are re-orienting towards green energy, technology and services. Such progress does not come by itself. It requires a strong democratic commitment, excellent governance and the citizens’ trust in the state, allowing them to fairly share in the benefits of progress.

Ladies and Gentlemen, 

Precisely these elements differentiate us from obsolete regimes. Unlike them, we do not want to stand alone, or thrive at the expense of others. We are at our best when we work together, not leaving anyone behind. Belgium’s companies and numerous centres of knowledge share this commitment. I invite you to consider them as your privileged partners. May it be a starting point for many fruitful exchanges during this Forum.

Thank you.