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Valdas Adamkus
81 quotes
“On the other hand, it would be naive to expect that we’d be capable of implanting that ideal, whereas the Western world has been pushing its way for several centuries.”
Valdas Adamkus (born 1926) first seen 2020 wikiquote, CC BY-SA 4.0 source
Recorded in: Former Lithuanian President Valdas Adamkus: “Once you put your hand on the Constitution, your life changes forever”" in The Baltic Times (2020)
“Just later when you start serving, do you take the responsibility and perceive how deep, meaningful and binding this oath is. The only thing which I’d like to say, especially, to the young generation, is that when you swear to the Constitution, you have to respect it, fight for the free man and his natural rights, and it will completely eliminate your private life. Since the moment you take that duty, you refuse your personal goals. Your aim from now on is to give your state and its people everything that you have with the best of your personality and your environment.”
Valdas Adamkus (born 1926) first seen 2020 wikiquote, CC BY-SA 4.0 source
Recorded in: Former Lithuanian President Valdas Adamkus: “Once you put your hand on the Constitution, your life changes forever”" in The Baltic Times (2020)
“A thousand years of fighting for survival. A thousand years of efforts to be within Europe, not only and not as much in its geographic space, but within its spiritual, cultural and political context. We confronted and countered inside and outside threats and we escaped the danger of losing our national identity or becoming extinct. Today as we look back on the past of Lithuania, we can describe many of its moments as national self-protection.”
Valdas Adamkus (born 1926) wikiquote, CC BY-SA 4.0 source
“We have known a thousand years of resistance and only some periods of quiet when our people could concentrate on economic progress, education and creative work. And each time, Lithuania would catch up with Europe in a comparatively short period. We saw many shifts from national resistance to nation building on our historical pathway.”
Valdas Adamkus (born 1926) wikiquote, CC BY-SA 4.0 source
“In this context of reality, the architects of Lithuanian history who were determined to get back what had been taken away from the nation in the course of decades or even centuries must be all the more respected. Today is the perfect day to remember those who made and created Lithuania in all moments of its history and to extend our acknowledgment and gratitude. Thank you for building Lithuania in freedom and in oppression, at home and in exile or forced emigration.”
Valdas Adamkus (born 1926) wikiquote, CC BY-SA 4.0 source
“Fighting for freedom and living in independence is the common denominator that brings the suffering and victories of the people of Lithuanian, their past and future, their armed resistance, their culture, education and science together in a single space. The work and endeavors of each generation and every person have created a nation vibrant in its heart and actions, forging a close bond between all of us here and the Lithuania of 1009, the Lithuania of King Mindaugas and the Lithuania of All Ages.”
Valdas Adamkus (born 1926) wikiquote, CC BY-SA 4.0 source
“The cruelties of the Cold War fell particularly hard on the Baltic nations, which during the inter-war period also included Finland and Poland. Having suffered through decades of violence and oppression, we tend to judge the Cold War by emotions. Therefore our view of the post-cold-war Europe differs from that of other European states.”
Valdas Adamkus (born 1926) wikiquote, CC BY-SA 4.0 source
“The end of the Cold War has opened to Lithuania and other restored democracies the doors to many European institutions. But the door to the key structures, generating the greatest prosperity, security and stability, are still hard to open.”
Valdas Adamkus (born 1926) wikiquote, CC BY-SA 4.0 source
“The Cold War stereotypes still burden us. The Baltic states are often referred to by the militaries as indefensible. And their membership in the Euro-Atlantic structures is therefore viewed as a concern rather than a benefit.”
Valdas Adamkus (born 1926) wikiquote, CC BY-SA 4.0 source
“Today we talk about the 'new' threats: illegal migration, smuggling and trafficking of drugs and arms. We need to coordinate our activities in strengthening border controls and fighting against organized crime and illicit trafficking. It is also necessary to strengthen democratic institutions and market economy of the countries in transition. In these spheres the Baltic Sea region has achieved much.”
Valdas Adamkus (born 1926) wikiquote, CC BY-SA 4.0 source
“The Cold War is most likely the only war in history in which Europe has been a winner. It has taught us once again that sooner or later oppression is doomed to fail. Any attempt to change the natural course of history ruins the oppressed and the oppressors. The strength of the new Europe stems from the shared values. The most important of them are human rights, security, stability, democracy and social welfare economy.”
Valdas Adamkus (born 1926) wikiquote, CC BY-SA 4.0 source
“In the past, heads of state designed the security maps of Europe and of the world as they saw it fit. This practise of the past should never repeat itself. I would like to emphasise therefore that the enhancement of security and stability zone should be all-inclusive and proceed without delay.”
Valdas Adamkus (born 1926) wikiquote, CC BY-SA 4.0 source
“We are well aware of the progress that should be made in certain areas in order to meet the criteria set for the membership: air defence, command, control and communication, logistics and infrastructure.”
Valdas Adamkus (born 1926) wikiquote, CC BY-SA 4.0 source
“In 1944, the Soviet terror and suppressions made me leave Lithuania. I found a temporary shelter first in a war ravaged Germany, later - in the United States. I was among those who could take advantage of the possibilities offered by free society, and also share its responsibilities.”
Valdas Adamkus (born 1926) wikiquote, CC BY-SA 4.0 source
“Although the Iron Curtain has separated Lithuania from the West, the Lithuanian people have retained their commitment to the values of democracy, freedom and the rule of law.”
Valdas Adamkus (born 1926) wikiquote, CC BY-SA 4.0 source
“Victory of freedom over oppression and the end of the Cold War opened up the ways for our participation in the process of European unification. The NATO pioneering role in extending the hand of support and assistance to the formerly captive nations was instrumental in this process.”
Valdas Adamkus (born 1926) wikiquote, CC BY-SA 4.0 source
“As we further pursue economic reforms, strengthen democracy and promote good neighbourhood, your understanding and support to our aspiration of the membership will facilitate the elimination of the last vestiges of the Cold War and will contribute to ensuring a lasting peace and stability in the Continent.”
Valdas Adamkus (born 1926) wikiquote, CC BY-SA 4.0 source
“The tragic events in September should reinforce our resolve to defend peace and security. I believe that in the wake of these events UNESCO could initiate new measures for strengthening mutual confidence and moral principles for our common life.”
Valdas Adamkus (born 1926) wikiquote, CC BY-SA 4.0 source
“The future role of UNESCO in identifying possible challenges to humanity and proposing solutions to them has acquired crucial importance today. The ever more rapid advancement of science, technologies and communications raises complex ethical problems for humanity.”
Valdas Adamkus (born 1926) wikiquote, CC BY-SA 4.0 source
“All of us look with hope and concern to the twenty-first century, the future course of which, as we are all aware, will depend on our confidence to act and jointly to seek common goals.”
Valdas Adamkus (born 1926) wikiquote, CC BY-SA 4.0 source
“Confidence is a great value. As long as we are confident in our goals, no one can stop us. I have no doubts that today Lithuania, and other candidate countries, are sure of the road they have chosen. Moreover, the recent and forthcoming decisions about enlargement of the Transatlantic Alliance and of the European Union have reinforced our confidence and resolve.”
Valdas Adamkus (born 1926) wikiquote, CC BY-SA 4.0 source
“In tomorrow's discussions, you will consider possible ways for developing closer ties between formerly divided and antagonistic regions. Yet, in this context, I want to point out the unique, unprecedented setting in which now all these processes are taking place. Our continent is finally free of dividing lines. What we do have, however, are underutilized opportunities. And we continue discovering, as part of European integration process, these new opportunities.”
Valdas Adamkus (born 1926) wikiquote, CC BY-SA 4.0 source
“The ability to put visions in practice is a great quality that is absolutely needed in the twenty-first century Europe. I am proud that this quality is part of Lithuania's national character. Over a decade ago, we were told that our hopes about independence were over-optimistic.”
Valdas Adamkus (born 1926) wikiquote, CC BY-SA 4.0 source
“I also take this opportunity to welcome Switzerland and East Timor, who are joining the United Nations family. This expansion of United Nations membership is important in many ways. It takes place at a time when the need for global solidarity and partnership is as great as never before. Terrorism threatens global stability and the very basis of our lives. Our countries must stand united and act together in order to avert threats to our existence and to secure the future of our children.”
Valdas Adamkus (born 1926) wikiquote, CC BY-SA 4.0 source
“My country knows from her own experience how powerful and instrumental solidarity can be.”
Valdas Adamkus (born 1926) wikiquote, CC BY-SA 4.0 source
“But political solidarity is not enough. Our countries have also launched regional initiatives and taken other concrete steps to increase contributions to the global campaign against terrorism.”
Valdas Adamkus (born 1926) wikiquote, CC BY-SA 4.0 source
“In the face of common threats, solidarity must emerge as a consolidating driving force in global diplomacy. The tragedy of September 11th is an experience that reinforces and strengthens our common resolve to combat and counter terrorism.”
Valdas Adamkus (born 1926) wikiquote, CC BY-SA 4.0 source
“Each and every member state of the United Nations should make a positive contribution to international security and stability, first and foremost, by respecting the rule of law and the human rights of its citizens. Good governance is a good starting point for all of us, irrespective of our cultural diversity and fundamental differences of history and geography.”
Valdas Adamkus (born 1926) wikiquote, CC BY-SA 4.0 source
“We must debate, talk things out and make full use of diplomatic measures; but we must be ready to act decisively when strategic realities demand defense of freedom and democracy.”
Valdas Adamkus (born 1926) wikiquote, CC BY-SA 4.0 source
“Democracy, human rights and the rule of law are the shared values and key pillars on which we build and consolidate European democracies. The rules and standards that the Council of Europe has consistently worked for form the architecture of united Europe.”
Valdas Adamkus (born 1926) wikiquote, CC BY-SA 4.0 source
“Europe without dividing lines and Europe as a union of open and democratic states – this is an achievement which we aspire to celebrate with the whole family of European nations. Regrettably, today we cannot do this.”
Valdas Adamkus (born 1926) wikiquote, CC BY-SA 4.0 source
“Today we witness a unique development of European identity. More and more countries accede to Euro-Atlantic structures and contribute to this process. However, only respect for shared values and delivery on international commitments will be the true source of European identity.”
Valdas Adamkus (born 1926) wikiquote, CC BY-SA 4.0 source
“The common tragic history of Europe with all victories and occupations will form a part of the European identity. We have to make it clear that there is no “twofold” history of Europe, just like there can be no “special type of democracy” which could avoid meeting its commitments to the Council of Europe.”
Valdas Adamkus (born 1926) wikiquote, CC BY-SA 4.0 source
“European unity is the treasure that deserves all of our care and attention. It is in European unity that the strength, cultural and religious tolerance and the intellectual thought of Europe lies.”
Valdas Adamkus (born 1926) wikiquote, CC BY-SA 4.0 source
“Today European unity should first and foremost focus on the spiritual and moral values. European unity should be based not on the struggle against something but on joint work for democracy, human rights and the rule of law. It is the development of democracy that will prevent conflicts and pave new ways for the European identity.”
Valdas Adamkus (born 1926) wikiquote, CC BY-SA 4.0 source
“There is an idea that I cherish deeply and I believe we all do. That is the idea of building a ‘Europe whole and free’ and a Europe that is at peace with itself.”
Valdas Adamkus (born 1926) wikiquote, CC BY-SA 4.0 source
“Europe has been set on a clear course, walls of mistrust have been brought down, families have been reunited and wars have been extinguished.”
Valdas Adamkus (born 1926) wikiquote, CC BY-SA 4.0 source
“For us, the concept of regional cooperation and good neighborhood policy has been instrumental in resolving many difficult issues.”
Valdas Adamkus (born 1926) wikiquote, CC BY-SA 4.0 source
“We have much hard work ahead of us. We should not shy away from difficulties but draw confidence from our shared past and the challenges we have already overcome by our common resolve.”
Valdas Adamkus (born 1926) wikiquote, CC BY-SA 4.0 source
“Working together, in harmony and with a shared sense of responsibility, we can come considerably closer to achieving the vision of a ‘Europe whole and free’ that brought us together in the first place.”
Valdas Adamkus (born 1926) wikiquote, CC BY-SA 4.0 source
“I have to admit that many nations, big and small, today have many more concerns than a decade ago. Today we feel less secure. The very structure of the international system seems to be fracturing, depriving us from the protection provided by international law and international institutions.”
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“The United Nations cannot be a mere passive observer if and when universal values and international law are under threat. Still, too often we remain observers in the face of mounting security crises.”
Valdas Adamkus (born 1926) wikiquote, CC BY-SA 4.0 source
“If we are to reform the United Nations in a meaningful way, perhaps we should have a better look at the experience of the European nations after the end of World War II and after the end of the Cold War. Based on this experience, it is obvious that we need to strengthen democracy at home in order to have good governance and a responsible leadership. Perhaps, responsible leadership will not protect us from all global challenges, but it will at least seek cooperation with its people and other nations to resolve the persisting problems.”
Valdas Adamkus (born 1926) wikiquote, CC BY-SA 4.0 source
“Security, based on cooperation, should remain the basic principle of different European organizations and of international relations on the whole.”
Valdas Adamkus (born 1926) wikiquote, CC BY-SA 4.0 source
“We also have to keep the commitments to value-based policies. It is through our commitment to change and reform that Lithuania has come to where it is today: a consolidated democracy, a strong reformed economy and an active contributor to international peacekeeping missions from the Balkans to Afghanistan. And I believe that we, the peoples of the United Nations, have to re-new our commitment to the universal values and principles so that we march together and in the same direction and our steps become stronger.”
Valdas Adamkus (born 1926) wikiquote, CC BY-SA 4.0 source
“It is because the United Nations primarily consists not of the sum total of the votes, but of universal principles, and these principles shall be the guiding light to us for the years to come.”
Valdas Adamkus (born 1926) wikiquote, CC BY-SA 4.0 source
“Ninety years ago, Lithuania crossed a major threshold on the path of history. On February 16, 1918, the descendants of a partitioned nation gathered in the Council of Lithuania and proclaimed to the world that the Lithuanian people, having survived long years of oppression and occupation, were committing themselves to their inherent right to rebuild the State of Lithuania. Even today, the Declaration of February 16 – born of our native language, history, remembrance and cultural heritage – remains a unique historical event inspiring our hearts to build up Lithuania.”
Valdas Adamkus (born 1926) wikiquote, CC BY-SA 4.0 source
“After World War II, Lithuanian partisans testified through their tragic fate that the Stalinist Soviet Union did not destroy the dignity and idealism of Lithuania. At the close of the century, thousand-strong crowds of freedom seekers answered the call of the Sąjūdis movement to stand up for freedom.”
Valdas Adamkus (born 1926) wikiquote, CC BY-SA 4.0 source
“Lithuania learned from its difficult lessons of history to resist, quite successfully, denationalization, russification and the denial of national identity and cultural awareness. It was more difficult to resist Sovietization. It left our society deformed for a long time, distorting the understanding of many values and ideals. Lithuanian politicians, however, have always derived their creative power from national culture and its traditions.”
Valdas Adamkus (born 1926) wikiquote, CC BY-SA 4.0 source
“It was more difficult to resist Sovietization. It left our society deformed for a long time, distorting the understanding of many values and ideals. Lithuanian politicians, however, have always derived their creative power from national culture and its traditions.”
Valdas Adamkus (born 1926) wikiquote, CC BY-SA 4.0 source