The President congratulated Germany on Unity Day

On Friday, President Gitanas Nausėda extended his congratulations to German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier and the people of Germany on the 35th anniversary of Unity Day.

The President's message emphasized that Germany is a strategic partner and ally of Lithuania in the European Union, NATO, and other international formats. Cooperation based on shared views and values allows both countries to effectively address pressing issues on Europe's security and defense agenda.

"We greatly appreciate Germany's tremendous commitment and contribution to strengthening the security of Lithuania and the entire region. Cooperation between our countries in the field of defense has reached a historic level - this year we officially inaugurated the German Brigade Lithuania (Litauenbrigade). This reaffirms the enormous progress of our strategic partnership in recent years. One of Lithuania's top priorities is to be fully prepared for the permanent deployment of the German brigade in Lithuania in 2027. We are grateful to Germany for this historic decision, and I firmly believe that through our joint efforts, we will turn it into a success story," reads the message of congratulations.

The President noted that the deployment of the German brigade in Lithuania is also a window of opportunity to further strengthen the centuries-old historical ties between the two countries and their peoples.

"We are delighted to have the opportunity to organize the Year of Lithuania in Germany in 2027. This will be an excellent occasion for the German public to become even more familiar with Lithuanian culture and with the potential for economic and scientific cooperation," said the Lithuanian leader.

The President also highlighted that Germany is one of Lithuania's largest trading partners and one of its leading investors. "We are ready to continue strengthening this mutually beneficial cooperation. Our countries also cooperate closely in the defense industry. Construction of the Rheinmetall ammunition factory is beginning in Lithuania - the largest investment in the defense industry in our country's history. I firmly believe that we will continue to work together successfully on initiatives that ensure our common security and defense," the message states.

The Head of State expressed his conviction that the friendship between Lithuania and Germany, based on shared values and respect for the principles of freedom and democracy, will help them remain united and strive to ensure the security and well-being of people across the continent. President Nausėda underlined that Russia's war against Ukraine poses an existential threat to the entire European security architecture, which is why Lithuania particularly appreciates Germany's significant military and financial contribution to the defense of Ukraine and, at the same time, to the values of Europe and the democratic world as a whole.

On the occasion of the national holiday, the Lithuanian leader wished the German people prosperity and every success in building the future of their country.