Dalia Grybauskaitė stated that, beyond doubt, this meant an appreciation of her committed work for the people of Germany. Responsible leadership and courage of Angela Merkel is of importance to entire Europe in addressing the most pressing economic and security challenges as well as in building the future of the Community.
In her message of congratulations to the German Chancellor, the President underscored that Lithuania and Germany were as close as they had ever been, and this was the result of the German Chancellor’s personal effort as well. According to Dalia Grybauskaitė, Lithuania highly appreciates Merkel’s contribution in taking a historic decision to send German troops that ensure Lithuania’s security and lead the NATO Enhanced Forward Presence Battalion deployed in Lithuania.
The President wished Angela Merkel every success, strength and good health in carrying out these important and responsible duties.
In June 2017, Dalia Grybauskaitė awarded Chancellor Angela Merkel the Grand Cross of the Order of Vytautas the Great for her responsible European leadership and strengthening cooperation between Lithuania and Germany.
