Lietuvos Respublikos Prezidentas

03/11/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 03/11/2026 05:19

Address by President Gitanos NausÄ—da at the Flag Raising Ceremony of the three Baltic States

Dear People of Lithuania,

Every March 11 is like the early spring sun - it warms us and melts the lingering ice. In its light, we see the achievements of our state more clearly. Inspired by it, we find within ourselves the strength to dream more boldly and to rise higher.

Today we celebrate a historic choice. We commemorate the day when people gathered in this square with the Vytis and national tricolor flags, waiting for one single message - the message of freedom and independence. After long decades of oppression, they would have accepted no other.

Together we endured many of the most difficult trials, when the physical and spiritual coercion of the occupier forced us to become someone else - not ourselves. Thirty-six years ago we stood up. We took a deep breath. And we set out on our own path.

Our unity, our yearning for freedom, and the will of the nation burst forth with long-gathering force. Turning our backs on the dark past, we joyfully welcomed the morning light. We chose bold change and embraced responsibility for our state - the only one we have in the world.

Our choice set the course for the future. For many years we have been strengthening the independent State of Lithuania. We became members of the European Union and NATO. To this day we continue to diligently build the well-being of ourselves, our loved ones, and society as a whole.

And we know that nothing can stop us as long as we stand together. As long as we pursue shared goals. And as long as we have so many allies and close friends.

Dear All,

It is truly symbolic that today we are joined by the President of the Republic of Moldova, our dear Maia Sandu.

We will never forget the decision of the Parliament of Moldova in May 1990 to recognize Lithuania's reestablished independence.

Today Lithuania firmly supports Moldova's efforts to become a member of the European Union. Today we wish the people of Moldova every success on their long road to peace, security, and lasting prosperity.

We are all bound by a common thread in this world. We all feel the consequences of global events. Therefore, the ability of Moldova, Ukraine, and other countries of the region to resist Russian aggression is also Lithuania's goal and our most earnest aspiration.

So today I ask you to convey to the people of Moldova an age-old wish that we reserve only for our closest friends:

For our freedom and yours!

Happy Day of the Re-establishment of Lithuania's Independence to everyone.
Lietuvos Respublikos Prezidentas published this content on March 11, 2026, and is solely responsible for the information contained herein. Distributed via Public Technologies (PUBT), unedited and unaltered, on March 11, 2026 at 11:19 UTC. If you believe the information included in the content is inaccurate or outdated and requires editing or removal, please contact us at [email protected]