Freedom recedes when crushing those thinking differently becomes primary goal - Nauseda

VILNIUS - As Lithuania marks the 35th anniversary of the January, 1991 events, President Gitanas Nauseda emphasizes the importance of freedom today and says that freedom also includes tolerance for those who think differently.

"Freedom does not exist where lies and manipulation prevail. Freedom recedes when crushing and humiliating those who think differently becomes the primary goal. And we ourselves turn away from freedom when fundamental decisions of national importance are made hastily, recklessly and irresponsibly," the president said, addressing lawmakers.

In his words, in these turbulent times, the people of independent Lithuania so zealously create new political crises, look for enemies among our own, and inevitably find them.

"I have always believed, and continue to believe, that freedom is given to us not to satisfy the instinct to dominate. The belief in one’s own righteousness, which is so abundant today across the political spectrum, is a powerful force, but it should not become a wedge that divides the nation. And here, we must all feel our personal responsibility," Nauseda underlined.

"We in Lithuania may have many different opinions on various issues, but freedom is a concept on which I believe we all agree. It is an axiom that no longer needs to be proven," the president later added to journalists.

In his words, Lithuania was strongest not "when we were looking for the speck in each other's eyes, but when we devoted all our energies to establishing and defending our freedom."

"Just as we did on March 11, January 13, and also on July 31 - the day of the Medininkai tragedy, which not only shook us but also united us all," the president stressed.

He believes that Lithuania will find the strength to free itself from unnecessary conflict.

"Freedom is our constant work, our constant effort, especially in today's world, which is marked by insecurity, seizures, anger, and hatred. We must resist all of this, and I believe that our nation is strong enough to withstand any adversity," the president said.

"May our joint march continue as an example to other nations around the world. Let everyone know that Lithuania is a country of free, courageous, and dignified people who are able to unite for a common goal!" he said.

Lithuania marks the Freedom Defenders' Day on Tuesday.

Soviet troops stormed the Vilnius TV Tower and the Lithuanian Radio and Television Committee building in the early hours of January 13, 1991, as Moscow sought to suppress Lithuania's independence declared on March 11, 1990.

Fourteen civilians were killed and more than 1,000 injured during the assault. One additional victim later died of injuries.

Soviet forces seized the broadcasting facilities but did not attack the parliament, which was defended by thousands of unarmed people.

Lithuania marks January 13 each year as the Day of Freedom Defenders in memory of the victims of the Soviet crackdown.