Valdas Adamkus

Dear People of Lithuania,

As we celebrate the New Year, we move together with Lithuania into the second millennium of our common history.

I sincerely hope that despite worrying forecasts the incoming year will be better and brighter for our country and for all of us. 

The first millennium of Lithuania was closely intertwined with the history of Europe: we worked and created, we defended and protected our state and, although we suffered painful losses, we continued to pursue freedom.

Today, as we start writing a new page in the book of our history, we testify a simple but profound truth: Lithuania has always been and Lithuania will always be whatever difficulties lie ahead and whatever obstacles we may have to overcome.

We face many problems, but what state or nation has not experienced them in the course of history? We encounter many difficulties and frustrations, but traveling through our life and that of our nation we have demonstrated that we can build tomorrow.

The ultimate goal, aspiration and meaning that Lithuania has always sought on its historical pathway is to be within Europe and to be Europe in its world outlook and culture.
 
Standing on the threshold of the second millennium since its name was first mentioned in European historical records, Lithuania is proud to present to the world its capital city of Vilnius as the European Capital of Culture of the Year. This is yet another confirmation and attestation to Lithuania’s course of historical development.

Vilnius truly deserves to hold this honorable title. With its unique countenance and spirit, its people devoted to preserving the past and creating the future, it sets an example that is followed by other Lithuanian cities.

The process of creation is an every-day endeavor in your hearts, thoughts and deeds. Thank you all who serve this noble cause sparing no physical and emotional intensity.

This year, we will celebrate the long awaited holidays in a more reserved manner than we had hoped. Perhaps not all of our ideas will be realized and not all of our hopes will be fulfilled. But we have been presented with a gift of lifetime: to open the door to Lithuania’s second millennium.
 
I send my greetings to Lithuania that is stepping across a historical threshold. I send my greetings to all the people of Lithuania’s second millennium. May the New Year bring you happiness, strength and resolve!