Estonia awards Budrys its Cross of Merit

Lithuanian Foreign Minister Kęstutis Budrys has received Estonia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs Cross of Merit for his contribution to strengthening cooperation between the Baltic and Nordic countries and for his strong voice in Europe, LRT reported, citing Lithuania’s Foreign Ministry.

The award was presented in Tallinn on Monday during a commemoration of Estonia’s Diplomatic Service Day. Budrys said he accepted it as recognition of the long-standing work of Lithuanian diplomats to build a strong friendship with Estonia and foster close cooperation between the Nordic and Baltic countries.

Reflecting on relations between the two countries, Budrys cited their shared path to independence, cooperation among the Baltic states, the struggle for freedom and diplomats’ work in governments in exile when their countries had been erased from the world map. He also pointed to the Singing Revolution and their joint path to the European Union and NATO.

“We are close friends, like-minded partners and reliable allies, always standing beside each other, fighting for what matters most to us and working hand in hand for the well-being of our countries and people,” he said.

Budrys said Lithuania and Estonia had remained true to their principles by supporting Ukraine’s fight for freedom, helping victims of aggression and speaking uncomfortable truths. He added that the countries had shown that states of modest size can be strong, respected and influential.

He said unity between the Baltic and Nordic countries was more important than ever as a brutal war was being waged in their neighbourhood and freedom and democracy were being challenged.