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Prime Minister Algirdas Butkevičius has started his first visit to Brussels by meetings with EU top officials. One of the main objectives of the visit is to discuss Lithuania`s preparation for EU Presidency and introduce priorities of the new Lithuanian Government.

Earlier today, the Prime Minister has met with the European Commissioner Günther Oettinger and President of the European Parliament Martin Schulz. Among issues discussed during the working breakfast with the EC Energy Commissioner G. Oettinger, was the Third Package for Electricity and Gas Markets. The Lithuanian Prime Minister has confirmed determination to continue its implementation, leading to the diversification of the gas sector in Lithuania in 2014.

On the liquefied natural gas terminal in Klaipėda, the Prime Minister has noted that the construction should be completed by December 2014. The Prime Minister has also presented Lithuanian government`s position on the Visaginas nuclear power plant, pointing out that with a view to avoid disproportionate and quick decisions, a task force will be set up, which, by the end of May, will come up with optimal solution to best suit the interests of the consumers.

Following the meeting with President of the European Parliament Martin Schulz, the Prime Minister has expressed his delight that they both have a shared opinion on a number of the EU presidency issues. “The President is very well aware of the Baltic position on the multiannual financial framework, particularly as regards agricultural payments, therefore we dare hope his support,” – said the Prime Minister.

“I am pleased to have had a fruitful and productive conversation. I support Lithuania on the equal payment to farmers,” – said President of the European Parliament Martin Schulz.

As regards the preparations for the Presidency of the EU Council, the Prime Minister has pointed out that Lithuania`s agenda will focus on financial stability, economic growth, the new multi-annual financial framework and the Eastern Partnership.

“We have exchanged views on the Eastern Partnership and cooperation programmes. Lithuania will seek to achieve Ukraine`s integration into the EU; this issue will come into particular focus at the upcoming EU Eastern Partnership Summit in November in Vilnius”, – said the Prime Minister.

On Wednesday, the Prime Minister will also have meetings with Secretary General of the European Socialist Party Achim Post, representatives of the EU Council, the Vice-president of the European Commission Olli Rehn, President of the European Council Herman Van Rompuy and President of the European Commission Jose Manuel Barroso.

Office of the Prime Minister