ADAMKUS: ARMENIA SHOULD JOIN EUROPEAN COMMUNITY

Regnum, Russia
April 26 2006

“After Lithuania gained independence, the principle of proper attitude
became a leading one of our foreign policy regarding to all countries
of the world, including Russia,” Lithuanian President Valdas Adamkus
stated during his official visit to Armenia, meeting with students
and lecturers of Yerevan State University on April 29.

“Of course, we may have some difficulties concerning certain questions,
but we should find ways to overcome them for the sake of today’s
generation, i.e. of our future,” Adamkus stated. The president
is quoted by a REGNUM correspondent as saying that “Lithuanian
foreign policy will not change, and will base on mutual trust and
respect.” “Since the time of gaining political independence by our
countries, relations between Lithuania and Armenia have been based
on friendship and mutual respect, and I do not see any reasons to
change the policy,” he stated.

“Armenia should join the European community, become a full family
member and assume appropriate obligations,” Adamkus stated. Answering
the question, how Lithuania can particularly help Armenia in the
way of Euro-integration, the president stated: “We already have
such cooperation; our specialists meet with Armenian colleagues,
widely exchanging experiences. Political will to effect reforms in
all spheres is important here; and the Armenian authorities have
such will. We are open and ready for cooperation. Of course, we made
mistakes, joining the EU, but we do not want you to repeat them.”