According to the US Ambassador in Lithuania Anne E. Derse, Lithuania and the United States reached a new level in their bilateral relations, delfi.lt wrote on 20 February with reference to Lietuvos Žinios.

The USA thinks of Lithuania as an equal partner with a growing influence. “I believe we reached a new level in our bilateral relations. We value you as an equivalent partner and not as little brothers. If the USA, as a big brother, could command you what to do and how, my job here, in Lithuania, would be very easy. But it is not like this. Lithuanian officers defend their national interests. When we have different views, we talk and look for a common solution”, – American ambassador states.

Mrs. Derse states, that our country attracts a lot of attention from Washington. That is confirmed by two visits made last year by the US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton. “As I am informed, Lithuania is receives much attention in Washington. The US Secretary of State and her team is interested in your country. I will mention, that Mrs. Clinton had 27 visits in Europe last year and two of them was in Lithuania. I think it says a lot”, – continued A.E. Derse.

She also added, that the “restart” political strategy will be continued in relations with Russia. However, the Missile Defense Shield in Poland is still a project that will be continued. “We will not agree with any constraints or restrictions in the implementation of missile defence system in Europe. Only NATO will defend NATO”, – the Ambassador said to Lietuvos Žinios.

A.E. Derse, who is finishing her tenure as an Ambassador, expressed her admiration to Lithuania and its people. On the other hand, according to Mrs. Derse, Lithuanians are too shy, although they have what to be proud of.

Translated by Giedrius Padriezas