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“Lithuania is the first of the Baltic States to assume the EU presidency. Latvia will preside over the Council of the European Union in the first half of 2015, and Estonia in the beginning of 2018. Since the regaining of independence, the Baltic States have proved to be responsible partners in the international arena,” said Solvita Āboltiņa, Speaker of the Saeima, at the solemn session of the Seimas of the Republic of Lithuania on the occasion of the opening of the Lithuanian presidency of the Council of the European Union.

“Next year Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania will mark the 10th anniversary since their accession to the European Union. Ten years have elapsed, and as full-fledged members we have our say in negotiations and we shape the decisions that will have direct influence on our people and on all Europeans,” said Speaker Āboltiņa.

The Speaker referred to the historic experience of the Baltic States and confirmed her faith in the values that underlie the EU integration and in Lithuania’s ability to once again demonstrate this unity and commitment. “It is evident that we – Europeans have to remind ourselves of what we have achieved since the end of World War II and since the collapse of the Communist empire. Unfortunately, the financial and economic crisis has cast a shadow over the recent years. At the same time, a lot has been achieved, and I am certain that even more will be accomplished during the upcoming six months,” said Solvita Āboltiņa about the Lithuanian presidency.

The sequence of the EU presidencies held by the countries of our region will ensure continuity on important initiatives such as the EU Strategy for the Baltic Sea Region and the Eastern Partnership.

In conclusion, Speaker of the Saeima wished success to the Lithuanian presidency of the Council of the European Union and acknowledged that “Your experience will be of outmost importance for us. Your achievements will benefit everyone in Europe and beyond!”

From 3 to 5 July, Solvita Āboltiņa, Speaker of the Saeima, is on a working visit to the Republic of Lithuania, where she is taking part in the ceremonial events, including the solemn session of the Seimas of the Republic of Lithuania on the occasion of the opening of the Lithuanian presidency of the Council of the European Union.



Saeima Press Service