Lithuania’s former Foreign Minister Gabrielius Landsbergis visited Taiwan for the first time, and President Tsai Ing-wen of the Republic of China awarded Landsbergis with the Grand Cordon of the Order of Brilliant Star in recognition of his key role in deepening the Taiwan-Lithuania relationship.
In his speech, President Tsai expressed gratitude on behalf of the people of Taiwan for Landsbergis’ outstanding contributions during his tenure, emphasizing his instrumental role in strengthening the ties between Taiwan and Lithuania.
Reflecting on the COVID-19 pandemic period, President Tsai highlighted Landsbergis’ efforts as Lithuania being the first European country to donate vaccines to Taiwan, quoting Landsbergis saying, “People who cherish freedom should take care of each other,” a sentiment deeply appreciated by the Taiwanese people, fostering an everlasting bond of gratitude.
President Tsai further commended Landsbergis for his ongoing commitment to advancing mutual cooperation between Taiwan and Lithuania, noting achievements in semiconductor, laser, finance, and medical fields. She praised Landsbergis for standing with Taiwan in overcoming challenges posed by the pandemic and countering the expansion of authoritarianism, reinforcing the shared values of democracy and freedom.
Amid the continued convergence of authoritarian forces posing threats to democratic nations globally, President Tsai underscored the importance of solidarity among democratic countries like Taiwan and Lithuania in upholding freedoms and maintaining an international order based on rules. She expressed hope for increased cooperation and exchange in various fields such as economy, technology, and culture between Taiwan and Lithuania to further promote democratic values and contribute to mutual progress and global peace and prosperity.
President Tsai extended her gratitude once again to Landsbergis for his unwavering support for Taiwan, welcoming him and his family to visit Taiwan regularly in the future, wishing them a safe and successful trip that would leave a profound impression on Taiwan.
In his address, Landsbergis expressed his honor at receiving the prestigious recognition, attributing the honor not only to himself but also to the colleagues and fellow citizens who worked alongside him at the Lithuanian Foreign Ministry and throughout the nation, all of whom support the people of Taiwan and understand the benefits of backing Taiwanese democracy.
Landsbergis emphasized that decision-makers within the Lithuanian government, having fought for freedom themselves or standing on the shoulders of those who fought for freedom, cherish the concepts of freedom, democracy, and sovereignty as deeply personal and invaluable principles, underscoring that these shared values are key to the Taiwan-Lithuania relationship.
He stressed the importance of friendship, cooperation, and mutual support between the two countries in inspiring other nations to join their cause, urging more countries to overcome their fears and join the growing community that supports democracy and freedom.
Reflecting on Lithuania’s tumultuous history marked by persistent struggles for freedom, including periods of being part of the Russian Empire in the 19th century and engaging in revolutions and uprisings in alliance with other nations like Poland and Belarus, Landsbergis highlighted the common commitment to upholding freedom and shared struggles for autonomy. He concluded by reaffirming Lithuania’s enduring support for Taiwan in its quest for freedom, symbolizing their unwavering solidarity in defending the principles of liberty.