YEREVAN. – Lithuania is trying to maintain  friendly relations with neighboring states, and such a move as sanctions are a temporary solution, Lithuanian Ambassador Erikas Petrikas said during a  press conference in Yerevan.

His remark came in response to a question whether EU sanctions against Russia are realistic and whether it would be right to take sharper moves.

The diplomat noted he does not believe that harsh economic measures are practical.

“I am representing only one of 28 member states of the European Union. Just as Armenia, we are a small state. We do realize that finding solution is not always easy, since there are different interests. We are trying to carry out balanced policy,” Ambassador Petrikas added.

Asked whether Lithuanian economy was affected by sanctions against Russia, Ambassador noted that his country has been having trade relations with Russia for many years.

“Our industrialists are looking for serious alternative, but today life goes on and export continues. No abrupt changes have been observed,” the diplomat added.