Good for Business, Internet, Lithuania, Technology

According to Minister of Communication Rimantas Sinkevicius, project RAIN-2 is essential as its aim is to reduce digital divide between urban and rural areas. "One of the primary goals of stimulating development of knowledge and information society is to establish equally developed advanced electronic infrastructure. It is crucial for citizens to able to use vast resources of online content and for businesses to be successful and competitive," said the minister.

The purpose of the Development of Rural Area Information Technology Broadband Network (RAIN) is to create possibilities for inhabitants, state and municipal institutions and business organizations located in rural areas to use broadband network services. Lithuania's efforts and work on implementing the project was well-evaluated and received recognition from the European Commission.

The Ministry of Communication and Public Institution Placiajuostis Internetas started implementing project RAIN-2 in December 2009. Total cost of the project is LTL 209 million (EUR 60 million). Nearly 85% of the cost is covered by the EU funds. The project is scheduled to be completed by 2015.