Vice-Minister J. Pranevičius in New Delhi discussed the geopolitical situation of Europe and India

On 15 September in New Delhi, the Vice-Minister of Foreign Affairs Julius Pranevičius, Lithuania's Ambassador to India Diana Mickevičienė and Sibi George, Secretary of the Ministry of External Affairs of India, exchanged views on bilateral relations between Lithuania and India, technological and economic cooperation - especially in high value-added sectors such as lasers and life sciences - as well as key geopolitical issues.

Vice-Minister J. Pranevičius addressed the geopolitical situation in Europe, Russia's aggressive actions, Europe's response to Russia's war against Ukraine, and support for Ukraine. The Vice-Minister welcomed India's aspirations to contribute to peace in Ukraine and invited the country to participate in humanitarian initiatives. Pranevičius also presented Lithuania's position on the Russian and Belarusian military exercise "Zapad," stressing that such actions increase tensions in the region and pose risks to European security.

Sibi George, for his part, reported on the challenges India faces in its neighborhood. Both sides agreed to maintain close contacts in pursuit of greater global security.

Accompanying the Deputy Minister is a delegation from the Lithuanian Laser Association and companies, which will host the Lithuania-India Photonics Forum on September 17 at the Bangalore International Exhibition Centre - an official event of the "Laser World of Photonics" programme.

The forum will showcase Lithuania's achievements in laser sector and foster relations with Indian partners.

The programme of the visit also includes meetings of the Vice-Minister with representatives of the Indian science and technology community and business sector in Bangalore: the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO), potential investors and companies working in the laser sector - all aiming to expand cooperation between Lithuania and India in the field of high-tech.