Indeed, much has been achieved – several years ago the country successfully became a member of NATO and the European Union. And Lithuania continues to progress at the same quick tempo. Lithuania’s GDP is growing at twice the EU average. The purchasing power of its citizens is growing and the number of business centres is rapidly increasing. Progressive ideas are valued here: Lithuanian cities are open to innovations, and they are steadfast in their implementation of modern projects.
The nation sets to achieve each of its goals with confidence, accuracy and speed. Soon, Lithuania’s name will become familiar all over the world: in 2009, Vilnius will be European capital of culture; in 2011 our country will host the European men’s basketball championship.
Lithuania’s cities have set as their main priorities the renovation and construction of cultural and sports facilities and the improvement of the transport infrastructure. However, the most ambitious goal of the country is to become a cluster of the knowledge economy. Lithuania has an enormous potential in this area: qualified professionals, well-educated and talented scholars, businessmen full of initiative, and a deep tradition of science and research. A network of five Lithuanian cities has already prepared projects for the reinforcement of synergies between science and business. The quality of EU transport corridors and our internal roads already comes as a pleasant surprise to every traveller. The improvement of transport infrastructure is one of the most generously supported EU cooperation projects.
Vilnius, the capital of the country, nominated as a city of the future of Eastern Europe and the Baltic region. The old town of Vilnius can be found on the UNESCO list of world heritage objects. Special attention is paid to cultural objects because the city is actively preparing for its activities as a cultural capital of Europe. In the city centre a “triangle of culture” is being established. The current university town soon will become a cluster of economic expertise and know-how. Kaunas is located at an important international crossroads. This city is famous for its technology specialists and athletes. Kaunas hosts science and technology parks, and a sports arena is being constructed on the ireland of Nemunas river, which has already attracted new business, tourism and entertainment facilities. Klaipeda is Lithuania’s port, an improvisation of city and sea. Klaipeda’s free economic zone is functioning well. The former industrial territory of the city is being reawakened to a new life: residents and businesses are starting to relocate in this area. Panevezys is rapidly strengthening its position as a leader of the Northern region of Lithuania. It will also have a science and technology park and a demonstration centre for new technologies. This year, construction will begin on a universal sports arena. The industrial and logistics park of Panevezys is undergoing intensive development. Elektrenai, located between Vilnius and Kaunas, is also in the process of implementing some ambitious projects.
Lithuania is bursting with energy, courage and persistence, and you will be carried away by its enthusiasm. Go forward in the dynamic cities of this country, with the active and creative people who live and work here. Rejuvenate yourself in Lithuanian wonderful nature. Get acquainted with Lithuania’s living culture; familiarize yourself with new ideas. The new Lithuania is growing in front of your very eyes!
|
Arturas Zuokas
Mayor of Vilnius |
Arvydas Garbaravicius
Mayor of Kaunas |
Rimantas Taraskevicius
Mayor of Klaipeda |
|
Vytautas Juskus
Mayor of Siauliai |
Vitas Matuzas
Mayor of Panevezys |
