2003.07.06

Vilnius, July 6th. President Rolandas Paksas of the Republic of Lithuania received today Polish President Aleksander Kwasniewski who is attending the celebration of the 750th anniversary of the coronation of King Mindaugas in Vilnius.

The meeting focused on the implementation of infrastructure projects, the draft of the Constitutional Treaty of the European Union and the situation in Iraq.

President Paksas thanked the head of Poland for joining the celebration of the anniversary that is extremely important to the state of Lithuania and its people.

Lithuania and Poland not only enjoy strong political and economic ties but are also linked by their significant historical past, President Kwasniewski said. He rejoiced at the possibility to participate in the celebration and mark together with the people of Lithuania the 750th anniversary of the coronation of King Mindaugas.

In the context of discussion about the implementation of infrastructure projects, the participants of the meeting agreed that the meeting of the Baltic and Polish Prime Ministers, planned for this September, will serve as a preparatory meeting for a later meeting of the Presidents of these countries with the President of the European Commission Romano Prodi.

President Paksas informed President Kwasniewski about a letter from the European Commission President in which the latter expressed support to the implementation of the Lithuanian-Polish power bridge, Via Baltica and Rail Baltica projects.

When discussing the draft Constitutional Treaty of the European Union, President Paksas said that Lithuania is interested in the EU further remaining an efficiently functioning and democratic organisation. The head of Lithuania expressed belief that the Constitutional Treaty will properly reflect the interests of all members.

President Paksas and the high foreign guests will participate this evening in the “Day of Songs. Crown to the Motherland” of the song festival 2003 of the World Lithuanian Community in Park Vingis.

Later this evening, President Paksas and Mrs. Laima Paksiene will host a reception in honour of the high foreign guests.

Press Service of the President