Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier underscored the significance of Lithuania’s national day as a “living testament to freedom and independence” during a ceremony in Vilnius on Sunday.
Addressing the nation, Steinmeier noted that the anniversary of Grand Duke Mindaugas’ coronation in 1253 holds a contemporary relevance, representing core values within the European ideal. He commended the Lithuanian people for their enduring commitment to liberty and their strong national pride.
Steinmeier highlighted Lithuania’s constitutional framework, which recognizes the Lithuanian people as the foundation of the state and emphasized that a spirit of freedom and responsibility remains deeply embedded within Lithuanian society. He reaffirmed Germany and Lithuania’s shared commitment to the freedom of Ukraine and the broader unity of Europe.
The deployment of a German brigade in Lithuania, he stated, symbolizes a message of mutual responsibility and alliance solidarity. Steinmeier asserted that the security of Lithuania is intrinsically linked to the security of Europe.