Diplomatic Events

March 11 marks the restoration of an independent government for Lithuania, after 50 years of control by German or Soviet powers. On March 11, 1990, the Supreme Council of Lithuania held votes to form a new governing council and elected a President. Although it took until July 1991, nearly a year and a half later, to gain international recognition, March 11 is a day of recognition and celebration given its important role in re-establishing Lithuania as a sovereign state.

The celebration opened with the anthems of both Lithuania and Israel performed by singer Helena Gaon. Following that, H.E. Ambassador Lina Antanavičienė, dressed in traditional Lithuanian clothing, began her remarks.

Ambassador Antanavičienė recalled the fateful decisions of March 11, 1990, and pointed out that although the courageous men and women then did not know what the future might bring, they found strength in a united vision of freedom. That vision of building a better future had motivated Lithuanians for decades, and fueled its “David and Goliath” level faceoff with a dangerous occupier.

The ambassador paid tribute to another European country fighting for its freedom–Ukraine and its war for sovereignty against an invading Russia. Ambassador Antanavičienė said that Ukrainian fighters defending their land are actually battling “for all of us”, for the future “of all Europe.” Unity among the civilized world is vital for Ukraine’s survival and ultimate victory.

Turning to Lithuanian-Jewish ties, the ambassador noted a rich and interconnected history. She observed that Lithuanian Jews were leaders who contributed to forming the modern state of Lithuania, as well as some of the pioneers of the modern state of Israel. The ambassador also spoke of the darkness of the Holocaust for Lithuanian Jews. In concluding, Ambassador Antanavičienė once again looked to the future, offering her hope for a thriving Lithuania-Israel relationship, and a bright future for both nations.

Minister Ofir Akunis, Minister of Science and Technology, spoke on behalf of the state of Israel. Minister Akunis congratulated the people of Lithuania on their independence, and on marking 700 years for the capital city of Vilna. The minister noted that Lithuania stands for freedom and democratic values. 

Pivoting to the Israeli-Lithuanian relationship, the minister noted that bilateral ties were established soon after Lithuanian independence, with the two countries celebrating thirty years of diplomatic relations. Forged on shared values, the minister mentioned areas of cooperation including economics, education, culture and science. Minister Akunis highlighted the recent visit by the foreign minister of Lithuania to Israel as playing an important role in bolstering that relationship. Minister Akunis also applauded Lithuania for its responsible approach to Holocaust education as well as in combating antisemitism. 

Following the speeches, Ambassador Antanavičienė and Minister Akunis raised a toast to the future and wellbeing of both nations. Guests then enjoyed refreshments and dinner, including traditional Lithuanian latkes.

Lithuania plays an important role in Jewish history and culture. Prior to World War II Jews made up 7% of the population of Lithuania, with many important scholars and centers of study. Unfortunately much of the Jewish population in Lithuania were murdered during the Holocaust, but the influence of Lithuanian Jewish remains strong to this day, with Lithuanian Jews constituting one of the major groups among Ashkenazi Jews in Israel today.

Diplomacy.co.il congratulates the embassy of Lithuania on this commemoration of independence, and wishes prosperity and success for Lithuania and its relations with Israel.