During the solemn ceremony, Loreta Graužinienė, Speaker of the Seimas, underlined that our state had reason to be proud of itself. "Led by fundamental European values, we grow free, and we are visible and respected globally. Our story of freedom inspires and strengthens those, who are still looking for their road to democracy", she said.
The Speaker of the Seimas was happy to see those who contributed to the restoration of independence as well as children who held the future of Lithuania.
"Different generations and different experiences enrich us and provide us all with a unique opportunity to develop, daily and responsibly, a robust civil society, where deeds match words and aspirations match dreams and where there is a sense of community and respect for every human being," Mrs Graužinienė said.
The flag-hoisting ceremony was also attended by Dalia Grybauskaitė, President of the Republic of Lithuania; Algirdas Butkevičius, Prime Minister; Members of the Seimas and the Government; and other distinguished guests.
The ceremony of hoisting the Lithuanian, Estonian and Latvian national flags was administered by the Guard of Honour of the Lithuanian Armed Forces and the Lithuanian Military Orchestra, while soldiers fired gun salutes.
The festive ceremony concluded with a fly-past of the Spanish fighter jets conducting the NATO Air Policing Mission.
