Speeches

Address by H.E. Dalia Grybauskaitė, President of the Republic of Lithuania, at the State Awards Ceremony

Dear Participants of the Awards Ceremony,
Dear Guests,

Today, on the State Day of Lithuania, we are here to honor the prominent citizens of our country and foreign nationals whose work and achievements have contributed in a major way to making Lithuania stronger and visible in the world.

Building a state is a never ending creative process. It speaks of history from the times of Mindaugas. It is a reminder of our fights, victories and losses, connecting us back to our deep roots, national wisdom and experience. It is a great pathway of learning which we continue to walk every day toward growth and strength. The call is now on us to build up unity and create a modern state, the stronghold of our values and identity. It is the mission of life. So let us be deserving of it. Let us live up to those who sacrificed their most precious possession, their life, for Lithuania.

On July 6, a day of immense significance to our nation, we honor the most renowned makers and builders of the state - those who work to elevate, dignify and inspire the human spirit. Those who teach respect for the state and give us a feeling of pride in the nation.

You spare no effort and talent to make Lithuania's statehood stronger and to promote its global presence. Your works are an expression of national creativity and represent Lithuania as an open, modern and tolerant state.

I extend my sincere greetings to all of you on Statehood Day and I thank you from my heart for your contribution to fostering Lithuania's creative and moral growth and advancing its international standing. I wish you strength and new interesting ideas.

May this day continue uniting us. May it forge togetherness and inspire noble deeds and aspirations as we build the Lithuania of tomorrow.