Speeches

Remarks by H.E. Valdas Adamkus, President of the Republic of Lithuania Opening of Lithuanian Reception in Paris

It is a pleasure and an honor to be here again. I am especially happy to see my dear friend Dr. Matsuura again. We had many intense conversations over the last few years. Most recently we discussed the impact of the global economic crisis on issues close to UNESCO.

I am particularly happy to be back in Paris today at this important moment in time for us. As you all know, the three Baltic States have nominated a candidate for the succession of Dr. Matsuura: namely, Lithuania's Ambassador to UNESCO, Ms. Ina Marčiulionytė. No need to introduce her to you! But I would like to take this opportunity to underline why we have put forward her candidacy.

By most accounts, the Baltic States are considered to be small countries. We do not overestimate ourselves in this respect. We realize that we do not have the levers used by the big powers. Therefore, when we put forward a candidate, we make sure it is for an organization that is close to our heart. In UNESCO, we feel that we can make a difference. The Baltic States are eager to make an impact both in terms of policy and good governance of this United Nations agency that is so crucial for finding answers to 21st century challenges.

I am also here today to participate in the UNESCO Goodwill Ambassadors' Conference - an honor bestowed upon me in 2003. I am tasked to drive forward UNESCO's action in the area of Knowledge Societies. Over the last few years, I have been impressed to see how UNESCO seeks solutions to questions that are by definition and by mandate, I might add, interdisciplinary.

We cannot speak of knowledge societies without providing basic education for all. But we must not stop there. The developing countries in particular need an ambitious UNESCO programme for higher education and research.

Knowledge is of use only to those who have access to it. I would even say: those who can use and apply it. UNESCO is a United Nations organization that will help all our countries develop coherent science and technology strategies in order to share the benefits of scientific progress.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Allow me to end with a note on culture. As you know, Lithuania celebrates this year the millennium of the first mention of its name in written records, while Vilnius serves as the European Capital of Culture. Many of you had the opportunity to visit Vilnius in 2006 when Ambassador Marčiulionytė chaired the World Heritage Committee. Lithuania has always been at the cross-roads of culture in Central Europe. I know that this expression is largely overused in diplomatic speeches. And yet it is true.

I am particularly keen to discuss with you Ambassador Marčiulionytė's proposal to launch a Global Cultural Diplomacy Initiative in 2010. Here we have a unique opportunity to combine UNESCO's strengths with the needs of all countries represented in Paris to set an ambitious agenda for a true dialogue between the cultures. When looking at the ongoing conflicts around the world, it would be naïve to believe that UNESCO can supplant the UN Security Council in its efforts to bring about peace. But it would be equally naïve to believe that we will solve these conflicts without addressing the issues of education, science or culture.

Excellencies,

Let me close by sharing one of my strongest convictions both as a politician and a private citizen. As my experience of the last twenty years in Lithuania's development and politics shows, we will not bring and establish peace or democracy unless we ensure the freedom of expression and particularly the freedom of the press in a country. Ina Marčiulionytė has been the driving force for freedom and democracy when Lithuania regained its independence. I am proud to see how she has continued to stand for these values in UNESCO. And I hope that you will continue supporting her in order to defend the noble and essential ideals upon which this organization was built in 1946.

Thank you for your attention.