LITHUANIA, December 8 - On 6 December, Prime Minister Ingrida Šimonytė took part in a virtual discussion of world leaders, organised by the National Democratic Institute (NDI). The discussion was held in the run up to the Summit for Democracy, to be hosted virtually by the US Administration on 9-10 December.

In the discussion opened by former US Secretary of State, NDI Chair Madeleine K. Albright and US Under Secretary of State Wendy N. Sherman, Prime Minister Šimonytė presented Lithuania’s experience in restoring democracy and lessons learned in strengthening resilience of the democratic system to the internal and external challenges.

‘It is important to remember that the world depends on the choices we make. Sometimes they are unpleasant, risky, and do not bring immediate benefits. But morally correct choices eventually receive universal support and show direction for others,’ said Šimonytė.

The Prime Minister underlined that democracy and its rules were the only form of government that allowed navigation through unexpected attacks of authoritarian regimes and successful development of the independent state of Lithuania. The Prime Minister also emphasised the need for support for those who aspire to become part of the free world.

‘We support the people of Belarus; they are very close to us. However, we see democratic aspirations of those further away, too. Democratic states must speak and act in solidarity, defending democratic values and freedoms around the world, because only the order based on these values and freedoms ensures the prosperity of people,’ the Prime Minister emphasised.

Šimonytė underlined that there is no middle ground – states are either democratic or not.

‘The success stories of Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, and other countries in the region can set an inspiring example for those who are still hesitant about whether it is worth choosing a democratic path,’ stressed Šimonytė.