Only two-thirds of the year has passed, but many organizations are already planning their activities for the coming year. Lithuanian parliament (Seimas) has decided that it is important to mark the 20th anniversary of Lithuania’s membership in NATO and the European Union, the centennial of Lithuanian Song Festivals, and to commemorate the work of the Lozoraitis family.
Membership in the EU and NATO, beginning in 2004, was one of the most significant steps toward re-establishing Lithuania’s nationhood, security and well-being.
The tradition of Lithuanian Song Festivals began in Kaunas, on August 23-25, 1924. This event has been essential to the country’s identity, with its variety of expression and its scope, gathering a wide variety of artistic groups and channelling the nation’s creativity, ensuring the preservation and continuity of its traditions. Lithuanian Song Festivals are registered in the United Nations Intangible Cultural Heritage list.
Highlighting the work of the diplomats of the Lozoraitis family in 2024 is planned in commemoration of the 125th anniversary of the birth of former Minister of Defence and Chief Diplomat Stasys Lozoraitis, Sr., (1898-1983), the 100th anniversary of the birth of Lithuanian Ambassador to the US in Washington Stasys Lozoraitis, Jr., (1924-1994) and the 95th birthday of Lithuania’s Ambassador to the Vatican Kazys Lozoraitis (1929–2007). Three generations of the Lozoraitis family worked consistently as diplomats to create, preserve and re-establish the statehood of Lithuania.
Seimas recommended the administration establish the programs and budgets for these 2024 anniversaries.
