Lithuania has always consistently supported and supports Moldova on its path to European integration, Ambassador Rimantas Latakas said in a reception held to celebrate the 26th anniversary of the restoration of the independent State of Lithuania, IPN reports.

The diplomat noted that Moldova is a state with which Lithuania has been linked by long bonds of friendship and they remember with gratitude that Moldova was the first to recognize the restoration of Lithuania’s independence. Moldova was an absolute priority during Lithuania’s OSCE Chairmanship in 2011, when the Transnistrian conflict settlement talks in 5+2 format were resumed in Vilnius. Also, during the Lithuanian presidency of the EU Council, Moldova initialed the Association Agreement in Vilnius. “Despite the complexity of the political situation in Moldova, we must acknowledge that the achievements of Moldova’s relations with the EU are also solid and meaningful,” Rimantas Latakas said in his speech.

He also said that Lithuania is ready to share its experience of European integration. “Lithuania by its own example illustrates that gaining energy independence is achievable. The country's energy independence - not easy, but the only way to ensure the safety of the country. Lithuania has ensured its energy independence only through energy sector reforms and by encouraging competition. Therefore, we support Moldova’s objective to secure the independent supplies of gas and electricity, to fully implement the third energy package,” stated the ambassador.

Lithuania restored its independence on March 11, 1990, one year before the formal dissolution of the Soviet Union.