"We are celebrating the 20th anniversary of the withdrawal of Russian troops from Lithuania. Over the time, we had a number of opportunities to learn yet another history lesson – large countries never give up their major interests. Only the measures they use to achieve them change. We have observed on a number of occasions that armed forces in the 21st century are successfully replaced by public diplomacy, energy and economic games, cyber and information attacks," reads the presidential address that was read at a conference at the Lithuanian parliament dedicated to the anniversary.
Recalling the Baltic Way, March 11 and the subsequent economic blockade, January 13 events and the gentleman-like agreement with the Russian Federation on withdrawal of troops, it is clear that principles and unity will always be Lithuania's strongest weapons, Grybauskaitė has said.
"Therefore, we should continue learning to recognize instruments of achieving the unfriendly interests and developing beliefs of the people of Lithuania that cannot be compromised. If the whole country and every Lithuanian remain strong, we will be respected and valued by any force that has interests in Lithuania," Grybauskaitė said.
The withdrawal of Russia's Armed Forces from the Lithuanian territory was finished on August 31, 1993.
