Speeches

Message of Congratulations to the Joint Baltic American National Committee on its 50th Anniversary

I extend my sincere congratulations to all of you on the occasion of the 50th Anniversary of the Joint Baltic American National Committee.

The Joint Baltic American National Committee, uniting the Baltic communities in the United States, was established at a time when the occupied Baltic countries needed it the most. It was you who fifty years ago stated clearly and explicitly that you will spare no time and effort to end the illegal occupation of the Baltic States.

The Joint Baltic American National Committee, which has been operating for fifty years at a great distance from Lithuania and the other Baltic States, is the best testimony that the Baltic people - Estonians, Latvians and Lithuanians - even though living far away from their homeland, have the willpower to unite for a common cause and achieve it.

Your support to Lithuania and the other Baltic countries is just as important today. Strengthening economic ties with the United States, promoting university exchanges and expanding Lithuania's scientific potential - these are only a few of the areas where your contribution of knowledge and time can make a significant difference.

Once again, congratulations on the anniversary! I wish the Committee every success in continuing the great work that contributes to the security and wellbeing of Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia, and further consolidates the strategic partnership between the United States of America and the Baltic States. And I wish the most fruitful discussions to the participants in this conference.