Lithuania
Since regaining its independence in 1990, Lithuania has undergone a remarkable economic transformation. By the end of 2000, this process had been greatly stimulated by the inflow of some US2.3 billion in foreign direct investment. FDI has contributed to green-field investment, mergers and acquisitions, as well as the privatisation of state-owned-enterprises. Creating favourable conditions for FDI has been a core element of Lithuania's economic strategy, and relatively few restrictions to FDI now remain. FDI has also been encouraged by the prospect of EU membership, as well as Lithuania's acces