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The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Lithuania Linas Linkevičius congratulated the Hungarian Minister of Foreign Affairs Péter Szíjjártó on the occasion of the 60th Anniversary of the Hungarian revolution.

Lithuania’s Foreign Minister wrote: “The 1956 Hungarian revolution was a powerful inspiration to other oppressed nations in Europe to continue to strive for freedom and democracy. These ideals in today’s Europe face new challenges. To safeguard freedom and democracy, our nations together with all the Euro-Atlantic community must show unwavering resolve and unity”.

Linkevičius stressed the friendly relationship between Lithuania and Hungary, also expressed his gratitude for an effective partnership in the field of defence and Hungary’s contribution to the strengthening of security in the Baltic region. “I am confident that the relations between Lithuania and Hungary will continue to progress in the most cooperative and harmonious spirit both bilaterally and in international organizations,” reads the Foreign Minister’s letter.

On 23 October, Hungary commemorates the revolution of 1956. It began as a student demonstration, which attracted thousands as they marched and protested against the socialist system, demanding greater political freedom. Later, the protesters were joined by some 200,000 people. On 4 November, the Soviet forces entered Budapest, brutally suppressed the uprising and mass arrests began. Approximately 250,000 persons fled Hungary.