Lithuania to strengthen cooperation with the United Arab Emirates in the field of transport and communication
On 11-12 September, Minister of Transport and Communications Marius Skuodis, together with the heads of Lithuanian Airports and Klaipėda State Seaport, visited the United Arab Emirates (UAE). During the visit, bilateral cooperation in the field of transport and possible new projects - flights between Vilnius and UAE airports, opportunities to increase the countries' cargo flows, and development projects at Klaipėda Seaport - were discussed.
On a bilateral meeting with the UAE's Minister of Energy and Infrastructure H. E. Suhail Mohamed Al Mazrouei, who is responsible for transport policy, ministers discussed ways to boost bilateral cooperation and connect the countries' seaports and airports by new destinations.
Lithuania has every opportunity to create connections between its own trade and logistics centres and those of this region, creating new opportunities for business and further diversifying trade. The projects for expanding the southern part of the port of Klaipėda, deepening the shipping channel, and developing a wind farm that are already under way or are planned for the near future in Klaipėda open up many mutually beneficial perspectives in the field of transport and communication,” Minister M. Skuodis said.
The meeting also discussed investment opportunities in energy projects.
During the meetings with "FlyDubai" and "Etihad Airways", the Minister and representatives of Lithuanian airports presented the opportunities and market potential of Lithuanian airports. The talks highlighted Lithuania's interest in significantly expanding the geography of its direct flights, with regular passenger flights to the region's transport hubs being one of the priority destinations. The presentations highlighted that a partnership with UAE airlines would be a strategic opportunity for Lithuania to significantly expand the geography of its flights and increase its reach to Asian countries, which would not only mean more choice and convenience for travellers, but also the opportunity to expand the volume of aviation cargo.
The visit also showcased the opportunities and capacities of cargo transport through Klaipėda State Seaport. It was noted that Klaipėda is already investing heavily in port infrastructure and the expansion of the southern part of the port, with a focus on high value-added activities.
Minister of Transport and Communications M. Skuodis invited his UAE counterpart to visit Lithuania.
During the visit, the delegation also met with representatives of Lithuanian businesses in the field of transport, innovation and business consultancy, based in UAE, with whom they discussed experiences of business creation and development in the region, shared best practices and perspectives.
The delegation led by the Minister was also attended by Aurimas Stikliūnas, Head of Lithuanian Airports, and Algis Latakas, Director General of Klaipėda State Seaport.
