Ahead of the opening of the conference, the First Lady met with Rector of Georgian Technical University Prof. Dr. David Gurgenidze and thanked him for long-standing cooperation in the field of higher education and for active promotion and dissemination of Lithuanian studies in Georgia.
“We are meeting on a special occasion as Georgian Technical University celebrates the centenary of its foundation. It is symbolic that this year also marks the centenary of Vytautas Magnus University in Kaunas, while 2022 has been designated the Year of Lithuanian Universities. Such beautiful anniversaries highlight the parallels between the historical developments of Lithuania and Georgia, as well as bear witness to the fact that our two countries have always understood the strategic importance of education,” Diana Nausėdienė pointed out.
Addressing the participants of the conference, the First Lady stressed that the Center for Lithuanian Language and Culture, firmly rooted at Georgian Technical University, strengthens the status of the Lithuanian language as well the cultural bonds between the two countries. According to the First Lady, the Center, headed by Professor Vidas Kavaliauskas, has become a powerful link between the academic communities of Georgia and Lithuania. The long-standing activities of the Center are an excellent example of deep, sincere, and mutually enriching cooperation.
Diana Nausėdienė emphasized that Lithuanian language classes, scientific conferences and seminars, exhibitions organized by the Center for Lithuanian Language and Culture not only showcased the heritage of Lithuanian studies, but also promoted mutual cultural exchange. “As we learn more about each other, we can see that we have many things in common. We share a common understanding of dignity and respect for other cultures. The present of both Lithuania and Georgia is based on a long tradition of statehood, passed on from generation to generation, despite the pressure of powerful neighbors. Our people also share a keen interest in the roots and the modern use of their mother tongue, as well as a genuine concern about its future prospects,” the First Lady spoke.
Diana Nausėdienė rejoiced at the growing community of Georgians who speak and study the Lithuanian language. According to the First Lady, their efforts to learn the Lithuanian language and get to know Lithuania better are most admirable. “I wish that this community will continue to grow, strengthen and spread the charm of Lithuanian studies across the Black Sea region,” Mrs. Nausėdienė added.
The Center for Lithuanian Language and Culture at Georgian Technical University is one of almost 40 centers of Lithuanian and Baltic studies operating outside Lithuania. These centers promote the dissemination of Lithuanian studies abroad, which is of strategic importance. By developing research, teaching the Lithuanian language and Lithuanian history, as well as by organizing events, they contribute significantly to Lithuania’s visibility and cultural diplomacy.
First Lady Diana Nausėdienė is the patron of Lithuanian education abroad.
