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On the 1st of May 2014 Lithuania marks the 10th anniversary of the membership of the EU. During those 10 years there have been many positive changes in different spheres of life.   “We can be really happy that 10 years ago Lithuania has returned back to the European family from which we have been artificially excluded. EU is one of important security guarantees for Lithuania.  Participation in internal market and common energy market are very important elements for economic development of our country. The membership of the EU provided for more democracy, rule of law, respect of human rights in our country. What is more, our citizens got opportunity to travel, work and study in the whole EU.” – says Ambassador Raimundas Karoblis, Lithuania’s Permanent Representative to the EU.

According to the Ambassador, in the 9th year of its EU membership Lithuania had to pass  a very serious exam, when it assumed the responsibility to hold the rotating Presidency of the Council of Ministers in the EU.

“Lithuania has passed this exam very well. Positive results achieved during the Presidency show that Lithuania was able to deliver and accomplish the tasks with responsibility, that Lithuania is a country that other member states can trust. We have used the unique opportunity to increase the visibility of our country – Lithuania has been discovered by many Europeans during the Presidency. Our aim to introduce the Euro next year also shows that Lithuania is capable to implement its commitments to the EU and willing to participate further in the process of European integration,” – says Ambassador R. Karoblis.

According to the Ambassador, Lithuania, as a member of the EU, is representing the interests of its own state, citizens and business and thus is seeking economic growth, security and well-being. However, one of key priorities for Lithuania is also the promotion of democratic values in the Eastern Neighbourhood of the EU, and a deeper political and economic integration of the Eastern neighbours with the EU.

 “The 10 years of Lithuania in the EU have shown overall benefits of our membership. There are no other alternatives to us as the EU. Thus, we have to be active in shaping EU policies and use opportunities available. We have to work towards strengthening the value-based EU, to effectively tackle new challenges, including security challenges. Aggression against one of the European countries – Ukraine - has once again shown the significance and the advantages of EU integration, as well as of the cooperation among states. Only in this way we will be able to feel more secure and to contribute to strengthening of peace in Europe, - says R.Karoblis.