India just recently saw a landmark election that made Narendra Modi its new prime minister. What is Lithuania's opinion of Mr Modi? What is Lithuania's expectations from Mr Modi?
The people of India chose Mr Modi to lead their country in a democratic election. Lithuania trusts and respects their choice. For over two decades we have enjoyed good bilateral relations with India. Naturally we expect that our cooperation will continue.
How important is India as a strategic partner for Lithuania and why? Specifically, what are the areas that you would like to explore with India?
India is one of the most dynamic economies of the world. It is an important partner for Lithuania offering new investment and business opportunities. In recent years we have witnessed a sharp increase in bilateral trade volume — by over 40%, the emergence of joint business, academic, cultural initiatives. These are clear signs that we have a mutual interest in developing our partnership further.
Both Lithuania and India have a vast intellectual potential. We should not hesitate to act upon it. At present laser technologies developed by Lithuanian scientists can be found in almost 20 Indian universities. Last year more than 200 students from India decided to pursue higher education in Lithuania. This year we expect this number to increase even more. Lithuania is also becoming an attractive destination for foreign film makers. And I know that Indian directors often choose Europe as a film shooting location. So this is another area of cooperation that should be explored further.
These are just a few examples. But they demonstrate that cooperation in matters as diverse as high technologies, trade, science, and arts benefits both of our societies.
And our partnership is not limited to economic ties. Both Lithuania and India regained their independence through peaceful resistance. We share cultural links that include remarkable similarities in the Lithuanian and Sanskrit languages. Indian cinema and art, culinary and Ayurvedic traditions are becoming increasingly popular in Lithuania. These are the things that help us to understand each other better and that encourage our friendship.
Very few women head countries across the world as president or prime minister. Women MPs accounted for only 21.8% of all parliamentarians by the end of 2013 globally. Since 2011, the average percentage of women MPs have risen by just 0.5%. Why do you think women stay away from politics?
I am glad that in Lithuania the situation allows for more optimism. In the previous government we had a number of women holding key positions — not only that of the President, but also of the speaker of Parliament, ministers of finance and defence. And this trend continues.
However, we still live in a world where most women are expected to make a choice between their family and career. This is not a question of priorities, but of possibilities. Women often carry a disproportionate burden of providing for their families. It prevents them from getting involved in politics. And that should concern us deeply.
Politics is more than just a career. It is the right of every citizen to shape the future of their country. And if we look at the European example, we can see that the role of women politicians has been extremely important during the financial crisis. In Germany, Slovenia and Denmark women took the lead when the most difficult decisions had to be taken.
So it is important for women to find their voice in politics — local, national and global. Institutional quotas for women politicians are not enough. A real solution requires determination and effort both from women and societies at large. We cannot expect to have democracy in the full sense of the word if women remain excluded.
You possess a black belt in karate? There has been a spate of sexual attacks on women in India recently. How according to you can India protect its women? Should self-defence classes be made mandatory in India for women in schools and colleges where they can be taught techniques like karate?
Karate is not simply a martial art. It is a philosophy, an exercise of self-discipline and a way of life. Of course it can be used as a means of self-defence. But it is important to realize that sexual assaults are not the only kind of violence that women face. Lack of economic opportunities and social exclusion can be as violent as physical aggression. Violence against women is not exclusive to a single country. It is an issue of global concern.
Self-defence classes can be beneficial but they will not solve the problem. We need to work together, globally and in local communities, to improve the livelihood of women, and men. We need to develop and uphold a culture of respect to each other and to our differences. That is the only way to ensure the safety of women.
Is there any Indian who has inspired you?
I have always admired Mahatma Gandhi. His personal strength and willingness to sacrifice for the greater good of the people is an inspiration.
Will you push India to start a consulate in Vilnius, something which has been pending for a long time?
Of course, Lithuania welcomes the initiative of opening an Indian consulate in Vilnius. It would help to further consolidate our diplomatic relations and encourage Lithuanian and Indian citizens to cooperate even closer.
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Interview with Lithuania's first woman president Dalia Grybauskaite
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