„Lithuania, seeking to continue moving forward, is actively seeking new partners in strategic sectors. We view the Czech business community precisely as such a strategic partner with great potential for mutually beneficial cooperation. We offer an environment where speed is a strategic advantage, and bureaucracy is a relic of the past,“ Nausėda said at the Lithuanian-Czech Business Forum on Friday.
According to the Office of the President, the Lithuanian leader, together with Czech President Petr Pavel, participated in a bilateral business forum where new opportunities for industrial and technological cooperation were discussed.
It is reported that three cooperation agreements were signed during the forum: in the field of laser and photonics research, in business and industrial cooperation in the defence and security sectors, and in partnership in the life sciences and biotechnology sectors.
„I am convinced that this event is another step in bringing our countries and business communities closer together,“ said the President of Lithuania.
According to him, having increased defence spending to 5.38% of gross domestic product (GDP), Lithuania is not only purchasing military equipment but also developing an industrial ecosystem open to its closest allies. In Nausėda’s view, the Czech Republic could make a significant contribution to this effort.
„The Czech Republic’s legendary industrial traditions perfectly complement Lithuania’s expertise in the fields of lasers, sensors, and cybersecurity. Therefore, I invite Czech industry leaders to apply their manufacturing skills in Lithuania as well. Let’s build the future of European defence together,“ said the head of state.
According to the President, the Czech Republic could also contribute to the rapidly growing Lithuanian life sciences sector and the development of laser technologies.
„Biotechnology already accounts for nearly 3% of our GDP, and our goal is to double that figure. We consider the Czech Republic’s prestigious research institutions to be important partners in the fields of biotechnology production and clinical trials,“ assured Nausėda.
„Meanwhile, ultra-short pulse lasers manufactured in Lithuania today account for more than 50% of the global scientific laser market. They are used by NASA, CERN, and the world’s top laboratories, and our manufacturers are far from done expanding. The Czech Republic’s contribution here would also be very welcome,“ he added.
ELTA notes that Czech President Pavel has been visiting Vilnius since Thursday.