u.s. policy & issues 

Remarks for Ambassador John A. Cloud

Presentation of Credentials to the President of the Republic of Lithuania

August 17, 2006

Your Excellency,

I am honored to represent President Bush and the American people here in Lithuania, one of America’s closest friends and a nation that plays a critical role in spreading freedom around the world.  

I look forward to working with you to build upon the strong, vital alliance and common values that our two countries share.  As an active member of NATO, Lithuania is not only a valued contributor to the Atlantic Alliance, but a legitimate leader on the global stage.   The United States admires Lithuania’s efforts to extend the reach of freedom and expand the family of democratic nations throughout the region and around the world.

But the Lithuanian-American relationship is built upon a great deal more than our shared love for freedom: Our cultures and histories are joined in a deep national friendship between our two peoples.  I see this in our shared passion for sports, which was on vivid display when our two national basketball teams met on the court last Sunday.  I hope you will let me enjoy the U.S. victory in this game, while knowing that we are likely to play again before this month is over.  I see this in Lithuanians’ love for jazz, and in the tremendous talent and pride among your wonderful musicians.  I also see this in the vibrant community of Lithuanian-Americans in the United States, whose hard work and ingenuity have helped to shape American cultural, economic, and political life for over a century.  

As Americans, we especially see the depth of our national friendship when we witness your determination to persevere, your refusal to waver in the face of adversity, and your resolve to get the job done.  Thanks to the courageous efforts of your servicemen in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Kosovo, Lithuania is making a lasting impact on the spread of democracy worldwide.  Having stood up for freedom fifteen years ago, you are now giving the same gift to distant peoples enduring their own struggles for liberty.  Lithuania and the international coalition have delivered a message loud and clear:  We will stand by the people of Iraq and Afghanistan, shoulder to shoulder, as they fight for a future of freedom and opportunity.

In addition to our shared values, we share challenges. There is still work to be done.  I am looking forward to working with you to expand the borders of a free, secure, and democratic Europe.  I also hope to work with you and the government to enhance the Lithuanian-American economic relationship.  We also face the challenges of combating terrorism,   and ensuring protection for the heritage of ethnic and religious minorities.  As we face the challenges that lay ahead, we are grateful to confront them with a stalwart ally like Lithuania at our side.

From our joint efforts on the international stage to our shared cultural and family ties, we have a great deal to celebrate about the Lithuanian-American relationship.  With great pride, the United States stands with you as your friend and ally.  It is my great privilege to work with you to embrace our shared values – and confront our shared challenges – as Trans-Atlantic partners and the best of friends.