Kaunas Mayor Andrius Kupčinskas says the cooperation should be shifted to day-to-day life of the city in the long run.
"Sharing of governing experience is very important, we are inspired by the example on the public order service. Indeed, our budgets are different but we have something to learn from one another," Kupčinskas told BNS.
Riga municipal police has a staff of 900, while the function in Kaunas will be performed by an increased number of 30 people.
"For now, the cooperation will start on the top level but it is important to expand it further. They appreciate our arena, we intend to exchange symphonic orchestras, performances, cultural and sports events in the future," the Kaunas Mayor said.
The protocol was signed by Kupčinskas and the chairman of Riga Municipal Council, Nils Usakovs.
"The signing of the protocol of intentions is very important as it may help find a common language not only between the cities but also between the countries," Riga City Council Executive Director Juris Radzevics, who also attended the event, said.
The signed documents stipulates expanding cooperation, focusing on cultural, educational, sports, tourism, urban development, and municipal administration issues. Also in the plans are youth cooperation and exchange in the field of cultural procurement as well as exchange of experience in the fields of sports, development of sports infrastructure, and promotion of business-friendly environment.
