Speech by President of the Republic of Finland Tarja Halonen at the Commemoration of the Millennium of Lithuania in Vilnius on 6 July 2009

Check against delivery

On the occasion of the Commemoration of the Millennium of Lithuania I have the great pleasure to present to you my heartfelt congratulations on behalf of all the people of Finland. A visit to Vilnius is especially pleasant now when it is one of the European Capitals of Culture.

Lithuania has travelled a long way since the name of your country was first mentioned in the Annals of Quedlinburg in 1009. The changes in Europe have affected Lithuania, and your country has likewise had an impact on the developments in our continent.

As Baltic Sea peoples, Finns and Lithuanians have engaged in lively interaction over the centuries. We have many common words in our languages. We also share an appreciation of the related kantele and kanklés musical instruments.

The song and dance festivals of the Baltic countries are a charming feature of the region’s rich folk culture. I really have the pleasure to enjoy this beautiful tradition these days. I came here to Vilnius directly from the festival in Tallinn. These festive occasions contribute to a sense of unity in societies, and sometimes they have political importance.

The peoples of the Baltic Sea countries have always been in close contact with each other. The globalization of today means that we all will have more to do with each other than ever before.

We have always emphasized the common cultural features of the Baltic Sea region. Protecting its marine environment should also be part of our culture.

***

Dear Lithuanians, I would like to again convey to you warmest greetings from summery Finland and wish you all the best!