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During his visit to London on the occasion of Lithuania’s Restoration of Independence Day, Minister of Foreign Affairs Kęstutis Budrys met with leaders of Lithuanian communities, organizations, and Lithuanian weekend schools in the United Kingdom (UK). He extended his congratulations on March 11 and emphasized the vital role that Lithuanians abroad play in strengthening national security and contributing to the country’s well-being.
“Today we celebrate 35 years of our very own miracle – the successful story of a reborn state. We not only preserved Lithuania, but turned it into an example for others striving to build a thriving, European, democratic nation,” the Minister stated.
Minister Budrys expressed gratitude for the active support shown by the Lithuanian diaspora in the UK and worldwide in helping Ukraine. He highlighted that these efforts are essential not only for Ukraine itself but also for the security of Lithuania and the whole of Europe.
“You’ve done so much – writing to MPs and governments, organizing and participating in demonstrations, raising and collecting various kinds of support. This help for Ukraine is crucial – every shipment of aid helps with defense, every letter to political leaders is a reminder of how vital Ukraine’s fight is for the future and security of Europe and the world,” he said.
During a discussion with members of the UK Lithuanian communities, Minister Budrys also addressed key issues related to Lithuanian language education abroad, as well as current topics in Lithuanian and foreign policy.
The United Kingdom is home to one of the largest Lithuanian communities in the world. The country hosts more than 60 Lithuanian organizations of various types and 55 Lithuanian weekend schools attended by over 3,400 children. In recent years, the UK has remained a key country in return migration trends, with 22% of surveyed UK Lithuanians indicating they are considering returning to Lithuania in the future.