03-10-2024

Prime Minister’s greetings to Germany on Unity Day

On Thursday, Prime Minister Ingrida Šimonytė has extended her greetings to the Chancellor of the Federal Republic of Germany, Olaf Scholz, and to all the people of the country on the occasion of the Unity Day.

‘The reunification of Germany 34 years ago undeniably contributed to the fall of the totalitarian communist regime in Europe. This important date is inseparable from the fundamental changes in history. Not only has it transformed the destiny of Germany but also the face of Europe, including our country.

The unity, freedom and democratic way of life that our peoples and societies aspired to at that time are today the foundation of our daily lives and an important source of inspiration for our neighbours and other nations. Unfortunately, today Europe is once again facing new security challenges, authoritarian regimes are once again threatening the international order that rests on the values of freedom, democracy and humanism. Today, it is more important than ever to keep our countries, the European Union, NATO and the whole international community united and committed to defend all of this,’ said the Head of the Lithuanian Government in her message of greetings.

As the Prime Minister points out in her letter, the long-standing friendship and mutual support between the German and Lithuanian people is a strength that is particularly needed in these turbulent times.

‘The Lithuanian people highly appreciate the excellent cooperation with Germany and the responsibility it has assumed to strengthen the security of Lithuania and the Baltic Sea region. I have no doubt that Germany’s historic decision to station a full combat readiness brigade in Lithuania will further enhance the ties between our two countries and people and open up new prospects for cooperation.

In the face of Russia’s brutal war, we are grateful for Germany’s unwavering support for Ukraine, which today is defending not only the freedom of its own citizens but also the future of the entire democratic world. Ukraine must win, because only in this way can we be sure of our own future and the future and security of Europe as a whole. We must do everything we can to make this a reality as soon as possible.

On this important occasion, I would like to reiterate my wishes to you and all the people of Germany for peace, prosperity, and well-being. I am confident that the partnership between our two countries will continue to grow from strength to strength, and that we will further our efforts towards a peaceful and secure world for future generations,’ reads Prime Minister Šimonytė’s letter.