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U.S. Government Statement Regarding the Decision of the Williams Companies to Withdraw from Lithuania

August 21, 2002

The United States Government strongly supports U.S. investment in Lithuania and therefore regrets the decision of the Williams Companies to withdraw from Lithuania.

We believe this investment served Lithuanian and Trans-Atlantic interests. According to the Williams Company, the decision to withdraw was based upon a need to concentrate on its core business and deliver a higher percentage of cash earnings, strengthen its financial condition and provide a solid base for the company to move forward.

Despite this announcement, we continue to support Lithuania’s energy independence, and broad participation of U.S. firms in Lithuania’s economy.

We also believe that Lithuania continues to offer a positive investment environment, as the presence of many U.S. firms in Lithuania demonstrates.

The United States will continue to support Lithuania’s economic development and encourage foreign investment.