President highlights strengthening economic and defense ties at US Independence Day event
Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda emphasized the growing economic and defense cooperation between Lithuania and the United States during a celebration of the 250th anniversary of US Independence, organized by the American Chamber of Commerce in Lithuania.
In his speech, Nausėda noted that US companies have long believed in Lithuania’s future, investing in the country since its independence was restored. He also highlighted America’s role in ensuring regional security.
The president underscored the importance of bilateral economic relations, particularly in defense industry cooperation, advanced electronics, high-precision lasers, life sciences, and financial services. “Lithuanians and Americans contribute to each other’s success, making our alliance stronger. Strong and long-term transatlantic ties allow our businesses to operate freely and our citizens to feel safe,” Nausėda said, as quoted in a presidential press release.
He expressed gratitude for the US commitment to the security of the region, Europe, and the broader transatlantic space. Nausėda also pointed out that Lithuania, as a NATO member, leads by example by allocating 5.4% of its GDP to defense. These investments enable modernization of the armed forces and military infrastructure to host allied troops, including US soldiers.
The president also recalled that the 1776 US Declaration of Independence inspired volunteers worldwide, including Tadeusz Kościuszko, an officer of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth, to advance its ideals. He stated that the foundational idea—that freedom is not a gift from authority but a natural human right—remains a value that Lithuania, which understands the price of freedom, continues to uphold and defend.
The US Independence Day is celebrated on July 4. This year’s jubilee events began last week and will continue for 16 days, culminating in a light show near the Statue of Liberty in France, which will kick off a 25-hour special program on ABC television.