I was appointed consul to Lithuania in 2004, as a result of the Lithunanian Ambassador visiting Portland for the World Affairs Council, of which, I was chairman. Lithuanian's priorities include economic development, and I have been deeply immersed in Oregon for years regarding business attraction and retention. As the only consul in Oregon tied to pre-Soviet state, I feel its important to help Oregonians understand the culture and mindset of these formerly oppressed people. In addition to trade and development issues, I also represent any political initiatives, both here and nationally, that may be of interest to the Lithuanian Republic. Lithuania retains 13 consuls in the US, plus consul generals in Chicago and New York, both enclaves of Baltic peoples. Although I am still chairman of my former company, my entire day is committed to numerous business, civic, and political boards and interests.