Skvernelis: We made a progress in all unsolved polish matters

‘We made progress in all unsolved matters with Poland. One of them is signing an agreement between Lietuvos geležinkeliai and Orlen. It is a pity that it had not been negotiated for so long, because it concerns two key companies for Lithuania. I hope this matter has been solved now as it should be solved between partners and this is the way we will be solving the rest of the problems’ – says Prime Minister Saulius Skvernelis.

‘Act on spelling surnames is very important for lithuanian citizens, no matter what nationality they are. We are about to make a big step about this matter. Protection of lithuanian language as well as self-identification of every person is important. We will come back to this matter is autumn session and then the problem will be solved’ – announced Minister of cabinet office.

When asked about decreasing support among deputies for self promoted bill on surnames spelling, Saulius convinces that all deputies who signed the project are not changing their minds.

‘The bill has been signed by 70 deputies and few more declared to do this too. I think we will reach the agreement and there will be no need to collect signatures for the bill to be submitted. We cannot expect to solve everything in one day, when it could not be solved within 27 years, but we are moving forward’ – says Prime Minister.

Bill supported by him contains spelling of surname on the main passport page using latin alphabet W, Q and X. Having surname written on the further passport pages using all diacritical marks may also be considered.

‘We have a lot of national minorities in Vilnius Region and presence of Artur Ludkowski as an advisor in my team shows my attitude towards national minorities. All nationalities should feel as hosts of Lithuania, patriots and citizens’ – Prime Minister highlights and and adds that it is a virtue that Ludkowski does not belong to any political party.

Asked about meeting with Beata Szydło who has been invited to Lithuania during May meeting in Tallin, Skvernelis says that he will meet her in Poland. On the 5th and 6th of September Lithuanian Prime Minister will participate in Economic Forum in Krynica.