Minister of Culture Kairys in Luxembourg: “We are delighted to mark 20 years of membership in a multicultural and open EU”
On Tuesday, Minister of Culture Simonas Kairys participated in an official event at the European Court of Auditors (ECA) in Luxembourg, marking the 20th anniversary of Lithuania’s membership in the European Union.
“It is very symbolic that we are celebrating the anniversary of Lithuania’s membership in the EU here in this multilingual and multilateral environment. That is precisely what we Lithuanians sought 20 years ago – to be full members of the European family, united by European values, cultural diversity and openness,” said Minister of Culture Kairys. “Today, when we see the evil around us, we fight it with all our resources. While continuing to support Ukraine, we also have to accept Ukraine into our European family, because Ukraine is one of us.”
Luxembourg’s Minister of Culture Eric Thill congratulated Lithuania on the 20th anniversary of its accession to the EU. To mark the occasion, an exhibition of the works of photographic artist Saulius Paukštys, Lithuania: 20 years in the European Union, was opened at the ECA art gallery, and the State Choir Vilnius performed a concert.
On Monday, the eve of the official event, the State Choir Vilnius also performed a concert marking the occasion at Saint Michael’s Church in Luxembourg. “This is not the first time that cultural roads have brought me to Luxembourg. Two years ago, I visited Esch-sur-Alzette. In 2022, this city, along with Kaunas in Lithuania and Novi Sad in Serbia, shared the title of European Capital of Culture. That was indeed a special year. It reinforced the European dimension of these very different, yet very interesting cities,” said Minister of Culture Kairys, thanking those present who together with Lithuania celebrate the 20th anniversary of its membership in the EU.
On Monday, in a meeting with Luxembourg’s Minister of Culture Eric Thill, Minister of Culture Kairys discussed strengthening cooperation between the countries in the context of the Mondiacult Declaration, further development of the European Capital of Culture project, and actions to assist Ukraine’s cultural sector.
Minister of Culture Kairys also participated in meetings with representatives of cultural institutions, visited workshops of artists who maintain connections with Lithuania, and met with members of the board of the Lithuanian community in Luxembourg.
Last updated: 13-05-2024