“We could be proud that we have achieved NATO and EU membership, joined the Schengen zone, introduced euro, and are enjoying growing economies,” reads the congratulations letter. “Today, facing serious security challenges, we have to continue our common efforts in achieving a permanent military presence of NATO Allies in the region, enhancing energy security through the synchronization of the Baltic electricity system with the Continental European Network, and integrating our railways into the European infrastructure as well.”
President Dalia Grybauskaitė extended congratulations on behalf of the Lithuanian people and on her own behalf to President Raimonds Vējonis of Latvia on Independence Day.
In her message of congratulations, the President underscored that Lithuania highly valued Latvia as a partner with which it could work together, consistently and efficiently, to pursue common goals, protect the interests of Lithuanian and Latvian citizens and implement nation-building priorities in defense, energy, economic development, and other areas.
This year Lithuania and Latvia mark 25 years of reestablished diplomatic relations. According to Dalia Grybauskaitė, after the restoration of freedom and independence, both countries – closest neighbors and allies since 1918 – continue to be like-minded partners working to strengthen their nations, democratic institutions and civil societies.
The President said that the dialogue between Lithuania and Latvia – based on shared ideals and mutual understanding – would further deepen cooperation at the bilateral level and within the many international fora and organizations where Lithuania and Latvia addressed the most urgent challenges faced by the two countries, the region and the whole of Europe.
Dalia Grybauskaitė emphasized that, in addition to strong political and strategic ties, Lithuania and Latvia were firmly connected by unique people-to-people contacts, historical experience and the bonds of friendship built on the successful resolution of common challenges.
Dalia Grybauskaitė wished the President of Latvia and the Latvian people every possible success, security and prosperity.
