Baku event honors Lithuania’s journey to independence PHOTO

An official reception was held in Baku to mark the 108th anniversary of the restoration of the Lithuanian state.

The event opened with a welcoming address by Ambassador of Lithuania to Azerbaijan Kęstutis Vaškelevičius, Caliber.Az reports via local media.

In his speech, the ambassador reflected on the historical significance of the holiday, celebrated annually on February 16. On this day in 1918, during a session in Vilnius, the Council of Lithuania, vested with the authority of the people, declared the restoration of an independent democratic Lithuanian state.

Vaškelevičius also drew parallels between the historical experiences of Lithuania and Azerbaijan in the establishment of independent republics. “The events in Azerbaijan in the 1990s—or, as today, in Ukraine—remind us that history does not automatically move toward peace, justice, or freedom. Independence is not achieved because it is inevitable, but because it is defended and strengthened through the solidarity of friends. May the flag of Lithuania, Azerbaijan, and all peoples who cherish freedom, once raised, never be lowered,” he said.

Following the ambassador’s address, Azerbaijan’s Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Fariz Rzayev, spoke about the positive trajectory of bilateral relations and underscored the high level of cooperation between Baku and Vilnius.

The evening concluded with a concert program.

By Vafa Guliyeva