On the centenary of diplomatic relations between Lithuania and Japan Prime Minister notes the values that unite the two countries
At a formal reception in Tokyo on the occasion of the centenary of friendship between Lithuania and Japan, Prime Minister Ingrida Šimonytė highlighted the democratic values shared by the two countries and the new chapter in the history of bilateral relations marked by strategic partnership.
At the reception, which followed a concert by the Čiurlionis Quartet, Prime Minister Šimonytė delivered a welcoming address. According to Prime Minister, the most prominent symbol of the value-based relationship between Lithuania and Japan is the diplomat and Righteous Among the Nations Chiune Sugihara, who saved thousands of Jews during World War II.
“Thanks to such courageous deeds, the world becomes a better place. But it would be a grave mistake to think that in the course of history, evil disappears by itself, and that the triumph of freedom and life is a given. When we see evil, we must constantly confront it and fight for what is important to humanity. The current geopolitical situation calls for exactly such a clear value-based stance. Russia's military aggression in Ukraine, systematic war crimes and irresponsible nuclear blackmail have shaken the democratic world, appealed to its conscience and united it. The significance of Ukraine's victory over Russia goes beyond Ukraine's borders, because it is a war by an autocratic regime against democracy as such and against the rules-based world order”, Prime Minister said in her address.
Ms Šimonytė added that today the challenge by autocratic regimes is posed to peace and security not only in Europe–Japan is also well aware of its insecure neighbourhood.
“From its own painful experience, Lithuania also knows what it means to live next to a neighbour that is unpredictable, undemocratic, and unaccountable to its own citizens and to international law. Today, Lithuania and Japan stand firmly on the side of freedom, human dignity and international law,” said Prime Minister.
Head of the Lithuanian Government welcomed the elevation of bilateral relations to the level of a strategic partnership, the fruitful cooperation between scientists of the two countries, partnerships in the field of high technology, the growing mutual cultural understanding, and the establishment of new business relations.
“Let me congratulate everyone on the centenary of diplomatic relations between Lithuania and Japan. We are turning a new page, where together we will write the history of our strategic partnership. This partnership will serve the benefit of the people of our two countries, and together we will strive to contribute to making the world a better and safer place for democracy and freedom-loving people”, said Prime Minister.
Official diplomatic relations between Lithuania and Japan date back to 20 December 1922, when Japan recognised Lithuania de jure.