News

The year 2005 brought both welcome achievements and difficult decisions for Lithuanian foreign policy. At the commencement of its term, the new Government decided to make Lithuania the centre of regional partnerships and international initiatives. This rather ambitious objective seemed far-fetched for many. Yet, in fifteen years of existence, our state has proved in numerous instances that anything is possible, especially if consistent and purposeful efforts are made.

In the spring, Vilnius hosted an informal meeting of NATO Ministers of Foreign Affairs, which adopted significant decisions concerning co-operation between Ukraine and NATO, as well as reminded the world about the issue of democracy in Belarus. Our president visited Kiev, Tbilisi and Kishinev, while other top Lithuanian officials were also actively engaged in visiting these cities and countries. In addition, I had the chance to exchange opinions about regional problems with the Ministers of these countries many times last year. Concerted efforts paved the way for the emergence of community between democratic states in this vast region extending from the Baltic to the Black Sea.

The move of our closest partners such as Poland, Latvia, Estonia, Germany and the institutions of the European Union to join these efforts was most welcome. A new co-operation format named “3 plus 3” is already emerging among the Baltic States and South Caucasian countries. Extensive regional co-operation is inevitable in our endeavours to obtain tangible results. After all, our security, opportunities for economic development and, thus, the welfare of every person is directly dependent on our relations with our close and remote neighbours.

In this respect, the Russian Government’s invitation to participate in the Victory Day celebration in Moscow became a real challenge. Fervent discussions on this issue took place not only around the world but also in Lithuania. However, we managed to overcome this double-edged challenge with our heads held high. The decision of the Lithuanian and Estonian presidents to not attend the celebration in Moscow reminded the world of the tragic destiny of our states after the Second World War. On the other hand, our relations with Russia remained substantially constructive and we have been engaged in the professional solution of a number of specific issues relevant to our business, tourism and cultural exchange sectors. The incident of a Russian military plane crashing in Lithuania was also settled without any infringement of either international law or sovereign national interests.

However, the initial years of our membership in both NATO and the European Union revealed phenomena that were not exactly pleasant. It became apparent that not all original member states of the EU were ready for the enlargement and some of them were inclined to view us, the new member states, with superiority like before, or disregard us entirely. Protection of Lithuanian national interests required the persistent efforts of Lithuanian politicians and diplomats on several occasions. Negotiations concerning the long-term EU budget may serve as the best example. Not only our country but also the entire EU will benefit from this victory, which confirmed that 25 members could act together and solve the most complex issues with solidarity.

Let us remember how we began the year 2005 facing the natural disaster sweeping Southeast Asia. The powerful tsunami took with it thousands of lives and swept entire settlements from the face of the earth. Although we did not lose any citizens in this disaster, Lithuania identified with the global community and allocated substantial support to the regions that suffered, while thousands of Lithuanians made generous donations.

Solidarity became the foundation of the majority of Lithuanian international initiatives. Our country took an active part in the restoration works in Ghor Province of Afghanistan and international operations in the hottest spots of the world. Making these decisions was far from easy, yet they proved that Lithuania does not stand apart when there is a need to act together to overcome threats to world security.

It is especially important that our diplomats felt considerable support from society, while the most important decisions were made by the consensus of Lithuanian political powers.

Not only were the important political affairs extensively addressed this year, but also the everyday needs of people. Several discussions on emigration issues were arranged and a proposal package for the Government was drafted on the initiative of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Good ideas have already materialised. For example, the Ministry of Finance proposed the abatement of double taxation on income earned abroad. Cherishing the unity of two Baltic nations, we have also attempted to draw attention to the issues of people living on the Lithuanian border with Latvia.

Last year once again proved that foreign affairs are actions shared by all of us. There is no place for “political” or special interest groups. We must act together both at home and abroad. This is my wish to every Lithuanian citizen in 2006.

What awaits us next year? In efforts to consolidate our position as the centre of regional co-operation, we must enhance our relations with neighbouring countries, warmly respond to the changes taking place in these countries and, if required, offer a friendly hand. After all, changes in neighbouring countries may have a long-term impact on the prospects of democracy, stability and economic prosperity throughout Eastern Europe.

Leaders of countries and governments of the region who have chosen the democratic path will gather in the Lithuanian capital next May. I do believe that we will rejoice at our joint achievements then and will propose a clearer method of Euro-Atlantic integration to the consolidated democratic states of the region at the NATO Summit at the end of next year.

We, the citizens of the European Union, also need a clearer method. We must invent ways to upheave and solve the frozen issue of the treaty establishing a Constitution for Europe. Together with our partners we will strive to formulate an EU policy that takes into account Lithuanian interests in consideration of complex issues of infrastructure, energy, etc. The success of the Lithuanian diplomats depends on the early adoption of and adherence to the necessary decisions here in Lithuania.

We have already begun preparations for the UNESCO World Heritage Committee session to be held in Vilnius for the first time. Our goal is to make the most of this opportunity to reveal the riches of Lithuanian culture to the world and to consolidate the position of our capital as a centre for international conferences. In addition, we must identify an approach to address relevant issues of heritage with the help of renowned experts in the field.

It is our duty – and ours alone – to remind the world next year of the 15 years which have passed since the day we defended our freedom with the barricades of the 13th of January and to express our gratitude to the small but brave country of Iceland, which broke the ice of indifference and acknowledged our state. It set an example never to be forgotten, showing that only policy based on sound attitudes adhering to material human values – and not fear and special interests – can serve the nation and the motherland.

Antanas Valionis

Lithuanian Minister of Foreign Affairs