Press release, 22 August 2014
I want to congratulate all of us today on being free citizens of an independent country and standing on the Baltic Way, moved both by the commemoration of the memorable year and by knowing all the pains it took Lithuania to reach independence.
Exactly 25 years ago, a human chain connected the people in Vilnius, Riga, and Tallinn. Two million Lithuanians, Latvians and Estonians of all ages joined hands to demonstrate to nations across the globe that the Baltic States stood in unity and were determined to be free. Never will we forget the genuine feeling of unity and togetherness.
Today, on the initiative of all the three Baltic States, commemorative plaques were concurrently unveiled in Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia to mark the peaceful campaign of 23 August 1989.
The Baltic Way became a symbol of solidarity and unity, liberation and freedom of the three nations.
I firmly believe that we will share the spirit of unanimity and togetherness today and for years to come; I believe that our hearts will continue to cherish the invincible spirit of freedom, and that we will do all it takes to protect and defend our freedom and independence.
