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On 15 October, Minister of Foreign Affairs Kęstutis Budrys presented an award to Klaipėda District Municipality at the Association of Local Authorities in Lithuania’s Golden Krivūlė Awards, recognising the municipality’s efforts to strengthen ties with the diaspora and encourage people to return the region from abroad.

“Municipalities play a very important role in building and maintaining ties with the diaspora through their ability to understand the needs of people from their communities living abroad, involve them in local life and create opportunities for them to contribute to the future of their home region,” Budrys said as he presented the award to the Mayor of Klaipėda District Municipality.

According to the Minister, Klaipėda District Municipality has distinguished itself through its active efforts to maintain ties with people from the region living abroad, involve them in the life of the district and encourage them to return, as well as through initiatives strengthening the connection of diaspora children with Lithuania and their home region.

“I encourage municipalities to pay particular attention to the younger generation, so that children in the diaspora can get to know Lithuania better and have the opportunity in the future to return or become actively involved in the country’s life,” the Minister stressed. According to Budrys, municipal initiatives help young members of the diaspora not only maintain their connection with Lithuania but also learn more about their roots and develop a personal connection with their home region.

According to the State Data Agency, 647 citizens of the Republic of Lithuania returned to Klaipėda District Municipality last year, while 223 left the municipality.

The Golden Krivūlė Awards are the Association of Local Authorities in Lithuania’s most important annual event, recognising Lithuanian municipalities that have made an outstanding contribution to the country and their local communities.

Photos: Laima Penek