New Delhi, August 20: Lithuania’s Ambassador to India, Diana Mickeviciute, discussed the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, the India-European Union (EU) Free Trade Agreement (FTA), and the principles of Mahatma Gandhi. She emphasized Lithuania’s strong support for Ukraine and described the India-EU FTA as a significant victory for both parties.
The Ambassador characterized the Russia-Ukraine conflict as a war of aggression and imperialism by Russia against Ukraine. She asserted that the only resolution to this conflict is for Russia to cease its aggression and withdraw from Ukraine. She also highlighted the serious crimes committed during the war, stating that Lithuania is doing everything possible to assist Ukraine in its defense.
Mickeviciute noted that the Lithuanian public is united on this issue, believing that if Ukraine fails to defend itself, other European nations may also fall victim to similar aggression. According to her, this is not just an attack on Ukraine, but an assault on Europe as a whole, necessitating global unity against such aggression.
Regarding the India-EU FTA, the Ambassador stated that trade between India and the EU is already robust, but the proposed agreement will significantly transform their economic relations. She expressed optimism that the FTA would be signed by the end of this year.
She referred to the agreement as the “Mother of All Deals,” highlighting that it balances the liberalization of goods and services access with the protection of sensitive sectors for both sides. She deemed it a major achievement for both India and the EU.
The Ambassador also mentioned that Lithuania will hold the presidency of the EU Council from January to June 2027. She expressed hope that the India-EU FTA would be implemented and effective during that period, with Lithuania striving to make it a reality.
On bilateral relations between India and Lithuania, she noted that both countries have laid a strong foundation for cooperation. The embassies are fully active, and there is good collaboration on multilateral platforms, along with continuous progress in trade of goods and services.
In reference to an event honoring Mahatma Gandhi, the Ambassador stated that Lithuania organized a special program in collaboration with the National Gandhi Museum to commemorate the historical ties between Gandhi and the Baltic nations. During this event, a painting of Mahatma Gandhi created by a Lithuanian artist was gifted to the museum.
She emphasized that Gandhi’s message of peace and non-violence is not merely a theoretical concept for Lithuania. The country holds profound respect for Gandhi’s personality and values. She highlighted the historical connection between Gandhi and Lithuania, mentioning that Gandhi’s close friend, Herman Kalinbach, was a Litvak Jew who played a significant role during the development of Gandhi’s ideas on Satyagraha and self-reliance.
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