Political Quotes

“as an American of Lithuanian descent, I always come down to the floor around this time of year to commemorate Lithuanian Independence Day. The 16th of February is the most important national holiday for Lithuanians. Eighty-four years ago Lithuania declared their independence from Germany. At this time its government held two main principles, restore statehood and the right to national self-determination. Even after 50 plus years of Soviet occupation, these principles still hold true for Lithuania today. As soon as they established their independence in 1991, they have been working towards their goal towards NATO, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. I am pleased that Lithuania has shown as much tenacity and discipline in its membership action plan program as it did towards achieving freedom. All indications show it will be a significant contributor towards the Alliance. Since 1994, over 1,000 Lithuania troops have served in NATO-led missions in the Balkans. Lithuania has expressed strong political and diplomatic support for the U.S. antiterrorist campaign, and it is ready to contribute its military and medical unit as part of the Czech hospital to the operation in Afghanistan and a military security unit within the Danish contingent to Kyrgyzstan as its practical contribution to the 'Enduring Peace' operation.”