Economics, EU – Baltic States, Forum, Legislation, Lithuania

The Head of the Lithuanian Government thanked James Bolger for New Zealand's support as regards Lithuania's accession to the OECD. "Lithuania is determined to become a full member of the OECD, therefore your support would be also greatly appreciated in further negotiations on the membership," said Algirdas Butkevicius and added that Lithuania was ready to contribute effectively to the organisation's objectives.

Among other issues discussed with New Zealand's special envoy was enhanced bilateral business co-operation and possibilities for Lithuania to participate in New Zealand's Working Holiday Scheme. The Lithuanian prime minister said that Lithuania's participation in the programme would take further relations between the people of the two countries. The programme participants are entitled to temporary work in New Zealand to cover their travel expenses across the country.

Prime Minister Butkevicius asked Special Envoy Bolger to hand in to New Zealand's Prime Minister, John Key, an invitation to visit Lithuania.