Lithuanian ministers awarded Latvia’s highest state honors

Lithuania’s Minister of National Defence Robertas Kaunas and Minister of Economy and Innovation Edvinas Grikšas have been awarded Latvia’s Order of the Three Stars, the country’s highest civilian state decoration, LRT.lt reports, citing the Defence Ministry.

The awards were presented by Latvian President Edgars Rinkēvičs during his state visit to Lithuania. Upon receiving the honor, Kaunas described himself as “pleasantly surprised and honored.”

“This order is a meaningful recognition of the friendship between Lithuania and Latvia, mutual trust, and joint efforts for the security of our region,” Kaunas said. “Lithuania and Latvia are bound not only by proximity but also by shared history, values, and responsibility for the future of the Baltic region. I will continue to strive for even stronger cooperation between our countries. The unity of the Baltic states will remain the axis of defense.”

Grikšas emphasized that Lithuania and Latvia share not only a border but also a common vision for regional security, competitiveness, and the future economy.

“I consider this recognition not only a personal honor but also an acknowledgment of the close partnership between our countries and our joint efforts to strengthen the Baltic region. Together, we are creating a safer, more innovative, and competitive Baltic region,” he said.

The Order of the Three Stars, established in 1924 to mark the founding of an independent state and reinstated in 1994, is awarded for outstanding merits. Its motto is Per aspera ad astra (Through hardships to the stars).