Press release, 11 March 2016
Photos of the Office of the Seimas (aut. Olga Posaškova)
11 March 2016
Fellow Citizens,
We are commemorating a very meaningful day today – the Day of Restoration of Lithuania’s Independence. Right in front of my eyes in this square, I see a magnificent harmony of different generations and different experiences.
I see those who were the witnesses of the historic 11 March 1990. Some of you might have stood here in the very same place back then, waiting with excitement for the news that Lithuania was free again.
I see those who were born and grew up in the independent state. Your first independent steps have been accompanied by the first steps of our restored freedom. You have grown up, and so has Lithuania. Today, our state has 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.
I see many bright and happy children here. You have inherited freedom. You will be responsible for shaping the future of our state. To respect, to remember, to create, to foster, and to live in unity and harmony – these are the things that you have been learning from your parents, grandparents, and teachers on a daily basis.
Different generations and different experience 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.
Happy 11th of March, Lithuania! Happy holiday to all of us!
