On 12 November 2025, a guest from Puerto Rico — John A. Colastin, Business Development Director at MCI, a member of the Puerto Rico Export Council board, Vice President of the Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin Islands Infrastructure Cluster, and a member of the international business network CEO Clubs Network — visited the Kaunas Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Crafts.
The acquaintance with John A. Colastin was established in September of this year during a networking event organized by Kaunas Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Crafts and the global CEO Clubs Network. It was precisely this remote meeting that encouraged the visitor to come to Lithuania and meet with several Kaunas Chamber members who had participated in the event. The acquaintance with the CEO Clubs Network began even earlier — in April of this year in Dubai, when the Lithuanian–United Arab Emirates Business Council visited the country.
When common interests emerged, John A. Colastin met with Kaunas Chamber Vice President Vidas Butkus (who is also the Chairman of the LT–UAE Business Council) and with Gytis Mikalkėnas from UAB “Sapropel Organics,” a member of the LT–UAE Business Council.
During his several-day visit, John A. Colastin visited Kaunas Chamber premises, where he expressed interest in the regional business environment, investment opportunities, and export potential. The guest also visited several companies located in Kaunas, where he familiarized himself with their activities, innovations, and future development directions.
Both Lithuania and Puerto Rico have much in common — both countries are strategically attractive for business expansion, have highly qualified specialists, and are strengthening innovation ecosystems. Puerto Rico can become a gateway to the Latin American, Central American, and Caribbean region markets, while Lithuania can be a reliable partner in the European Union, capable of opening new opportunities for businesses in both countries.
The meeting with Kaunas region companies was mutually beneficial and relevant. It was agreed to continue communication, and reciprocal visits are planned to explore cooperation opportunities between Lithuania and Puerto Rico.
