Lithuania takes ownership of FSRU Independence

KLAIPEDA - The Lithuanian flag was raised over the Independence floating storage and regasification unit (FSRU), which arrived in Klaipeda a decade ago, after the country took ownership on Friday.

President Gitanas Nauseda described the ship as a symbol of energy resilience for the entire region.

"Over time, this vessel has become a symbol of Lithuania's political will, demonstrating our commitment to achieving energy independence," Nauseda said at the handover ceremony in Klaipeda.

"This project has transformed our energy vulnerability into strength and dependence into autonomy," he added.

The ceremony was also attended by the Latvian, Estonian and Polish presidents.

The Independence, which until recently sailed under Singapore's flag, has now been removed from that country's registry and included in Lithuania's Register of Seagoing Ships.