The Foreign Minister of Lithuania told President Peres that:
Lithuania, as President of the European Union Council, will continue to stand by Israel and strengthen the existing relations between the two counties and that Lithuania shares the European Union position to support Secretary Kerry's peace initiatives.
President Peres to the Lithuanian Foreign Minister:
"I believe that Secretary of State Kerry's initiative to restart negotiations will lead to a breakthrough" The President of the State of Israel, Shimon Peres, conducted a diplomatic work meeting with the Foreign Minister of Lithuania, Mr. Lianas Linkevicius this morning at his residence in Jerusalem. During the meeting the two discussed strengthening the relations between the two countries as well as Israel's relations with the European Union of which Lithuania will assume the council presidency in July. President Peres began by congratulating Lithuania on her upcoming role and said, "As President of the State of Israel I congratulate Lithuania on her upcoming role, it is a tremendous honor and I'm sure it is a source of pride for the Lithuanian people."
The Lithuanian Foreign Minister, Mr. Linkevikius, spoke of the deep and long standing relations between the two countries and of the many Israeli's of Lithuanian origin including journalists, diplomats and public figures. Foreign Minister Linkevikius assured President Peres that Lithuania a friend of Israel and, while not taking sides, will support Israel during the countries tenure as the president of the European Council.
President Peres also addressed the issue and said, "I believe that John Kerry's iniatitve to progress the peace talks between Israel and the Palestinians will lead to a breakthrough. Abu Mazen is a partner for peace and today it is clear to everyone that there is no better option than two states for two peoples. Kerry's efforts are important and together with the important work of the European Union and the voices from the Arab League, it is possible to create a framework to restart the talks."
