Analytics, Baltic States – CIS, EU – Baltic States, Legislation, Lithuania, USA

"Please accept the best wishes of the American people as you celebrate the 98th anniversary of Lithuania's declaration of independence. Lithuania continues to serve as a model to others, advancing democracy and security on a global scale. Your dedication to helping other counties complete their own democratic transformation has been made clear through your work in the EU Eastern Partnership," reads the US president's congratulation letter to Lithuanian President Dalia Grybauskaite, a copy of which BNS received from the President's Office.

According to Obama, Lithuania and the United States successfully worked together at the UN Security Council, fighting terrorism and promoting peace in 2014-2015.

"In addition, you have continued to show leadership beyond your borders by standing with Ukraine and by maintaining consistent support of Afghanistan," the US president said.

Obama also welcomed Lithuanian commitment to increase defense spending to reach the NATO 2-% GDP target by 2018.

The Office of Lithuania's President says that on the eve of the Day of the Restoration of the State of Lithuania on Feb. 16, it has already received letters of congratulation from the presidents of Ireland, Austria, Portugal, Croatia, Pakistan, the emperor of Japan, the kings of Belgium, the Netherlands and Saudi Arabia and the governor general of Canada.

Last weekend, Lithuanian was also congratulated by US Secretary of State John Kerry.