The event at Georgetown University commemorates the BalticWay30, and discusses freedom
On October 28, Ambassador of Lithuania Rolandas Kriščiūnas together with German and Latvian Ambassadors Emily Haber and Māris Selga, and Estonian Deputy Chief of Mission M.Koplimaa took part in a panel discussion “Legacies of 1989: Visions of Freedom” at the historical Riggs Library at Georgetown University. The event was organized by the BMW Center for German and European Studies and the four Embassies.
“You can kill people, but you can’t extinguish the flames of freedom,” said Ambassador Kriščiūnas about Lithuania’s experience during the Soviet occupation. Ambassador noted that Lithuanian history “teaches us that we shall not take freedom for granted,” and that “the solidarity among democratic nations and a clear deterrence for any potential aggressor are key in preserving peace and stability in Europe.”
Ambassadors shared their memories about the Baltic Way and the fall of the Berlin Wall; and discussed the lasting significance of these historical events.
Ambassadors also discussed current geopolitical and security challenges, the importance of NATO to Transatlantic security, the significance of the rules-based international system, and the challenge of the climate change.
Professor Katrin Sieg, the Director of the BMW German and European Studies Center, moderated the discussion. Ambassadors also gave interview to the student led podcast program “The Europe Desk.”
