Speeches

Christmas Eve Greetings from President Dalia Grybauskaitė

Dear Fellow People of Lithuania,

On this beautiful Christmas Eve, we have joined with those we love to share bread, the warmth of our hearts and all that we have. Together we grow stronger in spirit and faith. We are looking forward to tomorrow with hope and joy.

For many of us, this year has not been easy. The economic downturn brought about unexpected changes and unfulfilled expectations. But there were also moments of success and achievement. The vision is still there and the future is open wide.

We have found new ways to overcome difficulties. We have discovered paths of friendly support, mutual understanding, and more compassionate and responsive dialogue. We are now demanding not only of others, but also of ourselves. We are determined to learn, advance and aspire. It will help us endure and prevail. Let us remember our past: Lithuania has lived through more difficult times. And they would bring the nation even closer together.

Let us view today's challenges as lessons for tomorrow. Let us stand united in our support, trust and endurance. Let us join in resolve, ability and potential. Let us together build Lithuania, let us have faith in our homeland and let us work for its better future.

I wish you all strength and success, happiness and self-confidence. And miracles that we can create and share with each other.

Dear people of Lithuania, may the Christmas spirit fill your hearts with peace and love. May the coming year bring you joy and happiness.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!