On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I congratulate Lithuania on the 98th anniversary of its independence on February 16.

Lithuania has always been, and remains, a vigorous champion of democratic values.  As a member of the UN Security Council in 2014-15, Lithuania worked closely with the United States to pursue international peace, support the sovereignty of a democratic Ukraine, uphold human rights, and protect civilians in zones of conflict.  I am confident that our mutual cooperation in these and other areas will continue—including our commitment to shared prosperity through the proposed Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership. 

The friendship between our two governments is mirrored by the close bonds between our two peoples.  Americans remember well the courage shown by the citizens of Lithuania in emerging from the shadows of the Soviet Union and re-establishing their freedom a quarter century ago.  We are proud that throughout the dark years of the Cold War, the United States’ solidarity with Lithuania never wavered.  We stood together then and, as NATO Allies, we stand together now in our shared defense of international security, stability, and peace.

I wish all Lithuanians continued happiness and success as you celebrate your national day.