DOPESHEET
Lithuania marks state restoration day with commemorative events, concerts, and bonfire celebrations.
February 16 is the day of Act of Independence which was signed by the Council of Lithuania in 1918.
A centerpiece of commemoration as usual was the raising of the flags of all three Baltic States at midday outside the Presidential Palace in capital Vilnius. Moreover, 16 symbolic bonfires are lit on central Gediminas Avenue. In the evening, a concert is held in the Cathedral Square.
Among other unusual events this year was the special flag that was stretched around Gediminas castle towe. This flag is the longest Lithuanian flag reaching 1 kilometer an wishing unity.
As usually on this day president Dalia Grybauskaite has presented state awards to several dozen people as well as Lithuanian National Culture and Art Awards.
Lithuanians belonged to Russian Empire during the 19th century. Although they rebelled for several times, the first independence opportunity came when Russia was involved in World War I. Germany occupied western part of Russian empire, including Lithuania, and the Council of Lithuania had to maneuver carefully between demands of German authorities and desire for Independence.
The opportunity window appeared in 1918 when Germany was weakened by WWI. Independent Lithuania, although it would soon be battling the Wars of Independence, became a reality.
While the Act's original document has been lost, its legacy continues. The Act is the legal basis for the existence of modern Lithuania, both during the interwar period and since 1990.
SHOTLIST
Vs of a flag around Gediminas castle
Sound bite (Lithuanian), student:
I wish unity, happy celebrations and Entrepreneurism especially for young students.
Sound bite (Lithuanian), student:
I would like to wish unity for all of us and especially self help.
Vs from raising Baltic flags near Presidential palace
Sound bite (Lithuanian), DALIA GRYBAUSKAITE, President of Lithuania:
We know that if Lithuania has to defend itself again we will never be left alone as we were during fatal moments of our history.
Vs from state awards ceremony
Sound bite (Lithuanian), ASTA DICPETRIENE, awarded for her activity as a chairwoman of NGO Save the Children:
I would like honestly to share this medal with thousands of Lithuanian citizens who participate in our activity as volunteers or partners, with all those to contribute to our organization activity in order to help children so that they could be more happy and safe.
Vs of people marching towards House of the Signatories (a house where Council of Lithuania has declared Independence in 1918)
