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On 9 November, during his visit to Tallinn, Minister of Foreign Affairs Kęstutis Budrys attended a ceremony marking Estonian Foreign Service Day.

At the ceremony, Lithuania’s Foreign Minister was presented with the Estonian Ministry of Foreign Affairs Cross of Merit in recognition of his consistent contribution to strengthening Nordic-Baltic cooperation and his strong voice in Europe.

In his congratulatory remarks, Budrys emphasised that relations between Lithuania and Estonia are founded not only on a shared commitment to building a strong, secure and resilient Baltic Sea region, but also on a longstanding friendship forged through common historical trials, a shared love of freedom and significant achievements by both nations.

“When I think about relations between Estonia and Lithuania, I think of our shared path towards independence, the tradition of cooperation among the Baltic states, the struggle for freedom, the work of our diplomats in governments in exile when our countries had been erased from the map of the world, the Singing Revolution, and our common journey towards membership of the European Union and NATO. We are close friends, like-minded partners and trusted Allies, always standing by one another, fighting for what matters most to us and working hand in hand for the well-being of our countries and our people,” the Minister said.

According to Budrys, by supporting Ukraine in its fight for freedom, coming to the aid of victims of aggression and being unafraid to speak uncomfortable truths, Lithuania and Estonia have always remained true to their principles and demonstrated by example that even smaller countries can be strong, respected around the world and influential.

Lithuania’s Foreign Minister stressed that Nordic-Baltic unity is more important today than ever, at a time when a brutal war is being waged in our neighbourhood and attempts are being made to undermine freedom and democracy. The Nordic-Baltic Eight is a staunch supporter of Ukraine, is consistently strengthening the security of NATO’s eastern flank, and is working towards a stronger and more resilient Europe.

Thanking Estonia for the prestigious award, the Minister emphasised that he accepts it as recognition of the consistent, long-standing efforts of all Lithuanian diplomats to build a strong friendship between Lithuania and Estonia and foster close Nordic-Baltic cooperation.