News

On 8 May, the Speaker of the Knesset Y.-Y. Edelstein during the meeting with the Lithuanian Ambassador D. Degutis stated that the Lithuanian-Israeli relations, based on a true partnership and mutual understanding, have reached new high levels: over the past four years more than 25 high-level governmental visits took place, the trade and tourism have doubled, the direct flight Tel Aviv – Vilnius is operating successfully and the cultural cooperation is diversely developing. Speaker Y.-Y. Edelstein expressed appreciation of the Lithuanian Government's actions in ensuring the preservation of the rich Lithuanian Jewish cultural and historical heritage, in caring and respecting the memory of the victims of the Holocaust.

Y.- Y. Edelstein noted that this year will be yet another important year in relations between Israel and Lithuania: the Foreign Minister of Lithuania L. Linkevičius is soon expected to pay on official visit to Israel and the visit of the President of Israel Mr. Sh. Peres to Lithuania is being prepared. Israel also devotes considerable attention to upcoming Lithuanian Presidency in the European Union and counts on Lithuanian role in promoting  EU-Israel relationship.

D. Degutis handed an official invitation to Y. - Y. Edelstein to attend the upcoming fourth World Litvak Congress in Vilnius, taking place on 22-25 September, as well as participating in the commemorative events marking 70 years since the liquidation of the Vilnius Ghetto. Ambassador D. Degutis presented the programme of the commemoration of the Vilnius Ghetto as approved by the Lithuanian Government.