In Chicago M. Skuodis invited Lithuanian and United States business communities to cooperate more closely
Marius Skuodis, Minister of Transport and Communications, participated in the North America and Lithuania Business Forum in Chicago, United States, where he presented the Lithuanian transport sector and its opportunities. Speaking about the further development of long-term business relations, Minister Skuodis encouraged the business communities of both countries to cooperate even more closely to further develop transport and logistics links, increase mutual investments as well as promote digitalisation and innovation of transport and communication.
Achievements made by the Lithuanian business sector, investments in transport infrastructure and improving connections send a positive message to the foreign investors. Business forum in Chicago is a great opportunity to present benefits of our country, strengthen the existing relationships and establish new ones with companies in North America", says Minister of Transport and Communications Skuodis.
During the forum sessions and discussions, it was noted that the potential of cooperation between Lithuania and the United States has not yet been fully exploited, therefore it is important to develop it further, especially through bilateral trade and investment. In 2022, when the port of Klaipėda and the eastern coast of the United States were connected by sea route Klaipėda-Gdynia-Gothenburg-Bremerhaven-New York-Philadelphia-Norfolk-Klaipėda, direct cargo transportation to the United States amounted to 2.08 million tonnes last year.
In addition, active cooperation is aimed at expanding relations in the field of air transport. This year, the US Federal Aviation Administration should provide with conclusions of the assessment of the Lithuanian aviation sector. It is expected that these conclusions will open up opportunities for the aircraft registered in Lithuania to operate flights in the United States. According to the Minister Skuodis, this would be a major boost to the development of our country’s aviation business.
The forum which took place in Chicago this year focused on establishing contacts between Lithuanian entrepreneurs and business professionals living in North America countries and discovering new business opportunities. There is an active Lithuanian community living in Chicago.
United States is a priority market for Lithuania’s export and innovation, attracting foreign direct investment, tourism, agriculture and food products. Last year, the turnover of the trade with the United States grew by as much as 104% and amounted to 6.4 billion Euros. Exports to the United States grew by 9%, reaching 2.4 billion Euros. The turnover of bilateral trade with Canada last year amounted to 157 million Euros, while Lithuanian exports to Canada amounted to over 128 million Euros.
On June 5-9 Minister Skuodis is on a working visit in the United States where he has already met with representatives of the United Nations as well as members of the US Congress and other senior officials. During the visit there were also meetings with the management of New York Seaport, Atlantic Council, the European Police Analysis Centre and other influential Think Tanks and the Lithuanian community in America.
Last updated: 09-06-2023
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