News

Embassy of Lithuania in Israel arranged a festive concert followed by reception in Beth Hatefutsoth (Jewish Diaspora Museum) on 7 December 2006 in commemoration of the 15th anniversary of establishment of diplomatic relations between the Republic of Lithuania and the State of Israel.
Lithuanian Ambassador Asta Skaisgirytė Liauškienė greeted the abundant audience: Kneset members, Government representatives, business and culture elite, diplomatic corps, journalists and members of Lithuanian community. In comparing the turbulent histories of Lithuania and Israel, the Ambassador observed that when the Republic of Lithuania was established in 1918 (after winning the battle against the Bolsheviks), the State of Israel did not exist. When Israel was declared a sovereign state in 1948, the Republic of Lithuania no longer existed. Lithuania found itself under Nazi occupation and Communist rule. Official relations of the two countries started, when Lithuania restored its independence in 1990. The Ambassador noted that Lithuania has produced a great number of Israeli statesmen.
Vice Premier Shimon Peres talked about Vilna, which was not only the center of Yiddish culture, but of Jewish culture in general. The Vice Premier quipped: “You cannot be Jewish unless you are Lithuanian”. He observed that Lithuania through the thousand years of its history was very keen on keeping the independence of the land, the language, the culture with great sacrifice and effort. The Vice Premier noted that both countries have a rich past and that current relations are exceedingly valued.
The audience took obvious delight in the superb performance of one of Lithuania’s most celebrated mezzo sopranos, Judita Leitaitė, who came to Israel specially for the occasion. Andy Feldbau, a young and talented Israeli pianist, accompanied the singer. The programme included Lithuanian and Jewish folk songs, arias from classical operas, pieces of modern Lithuanian composers. Both performers received thunderous applause.