These bilateral plans and the role of culture in fostering societal resilience were discussed on Tuesday by the Minister of Culture Lukas Alsys and the Latvian Ambassador to Lithuania Solveiga Silkalna.
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Minister of Culture L. Alsys emphasized the strong cultural ties between Lithuania and Latvia and shared upcoming plans to achieve even closer cooperation.
“Cultural cooperation between Lithuania and Latvia is experiencing an intense period – this is evidenced not only by constant artist exchanges or successful institutional dialogue but also by the recently signed updated Baltic States cultural cooperation program for 2027–2030, which also involves Estonia in its implementation.
We see huge potential to further strengthen this strategic partnership. Next year, we aim to restore the position of the Lithuanian cultural attaché in Riga. Equally important is that in the current geopolitical context, culture is one of the most important pillars of societal resilience and strengthening our identity,” said Minister of Culture L. Alsys.
During the conversation, considerable attention was given to supporting Ukraine, discussing the aid provided by Lithuania and Latvia in protecting Ukrainian cultural heritage. The participants agreed that the Baltic States’ support in this area must remain consistent and coordinated. L. Alsys shared recent experience brought from Ukraine in combating hostile propaganda and reorganizing the activities of cultural institutions under conditions of war or emergencies.
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The minister and the ambassador thoroughly discussed preparations for 2027, when Lithuania will hold the Presidency of the Council of the European Union. It is planned that during the presidency, various events presenting Lithuanian culture will take place in Latvia. In the same year, Liepāja will become the European Capital of Culture. Lithuania participates in this project as a strategic partner – sharing the experience of “Kaunas – European Capital of Culture 2022,” and significant performances by Lithuanian artists are already included in the Liepāja program.
Latvian Ambassador S. Silkalna emphasized in the meeting the efforts of both countries to strengthen their representation abroad. According to the ambassador, Lithuania sets an excellent example by organizing national cultural programs in various foreign countries, and Latvia appreciates this practice.
It was noted with pleasure that the unity of both countries is annually commemorated by the Baltic Unity Day, whose main events this year on September 26 will take place in Naujoji Akmenė, near the state border.
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