Vilnius, September 4, BNS–Lithuanian foreign minister Linas Linkevičius invited Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu to visit Lithuania and the Lithuanian ministry reports the Israeli PM accepted the invitation made Monday.

The Lithuanian Foreign Ministry issued a press release which described Netanyahu emphasizing positive trends in bilateral economic cooperation, including volume of trade, increases in the tourism sector and successful cooperation in science, research and development and innovation. The two men also exchanged views on possible dangers in both regions and agreed to stimulate bilateral cooperation in the energy, defense and cyber-security spheres.

“A special connection binds Lithuania to Israel. We always emphasize, and always receive agreement from Israel on this, that this is more than just traditional politics,” Linkevičius said. He also noted this year marks the 25th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the two countries, and that there have been a plethora or events, initiatives and visits in Lithuania to mark this important occasion.

The Lithuanian formin also met with Israel’s president, Reuven Rivlin, and meetings are scheduled with Knesset chairman Yuli-Yoel Edelstein and other political figures as well.

Linkevičius is visiting Israel at prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s invitation. The Israel prime minister has Litvak roots. Among other family members, his grandmother hails from Šeduva, Lithuania.