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Lithuania commemorates 95 anniversary of its Act of Independence, which was signed by the Council of Lithuania on February 16, 1918 and proclaimed the restoration of an Independent State. Commemoration is attended by the President of neighboring Poland Bronislaw Komorowski, who said he was convinced it is the right time to improve relations between countries.

Various events are held in Lithuanian cities, the most important being planned in capital Vilnius. On the eve of commemoration President of Lithuania Dalia Grybauskaite handed out National Culture and Art Prizes for the leading artists.

Baltic States flag-raising ceremony, the solemn Mass at the Arch Cathedral Basilica and a traditional commemoration near the house were the Act of Independence was signed are among the most important events of February 16.

The culmination of the celebration will take place at national Philharmonic with the gala concert in the evening.

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.

Lithuania's President Dalia Grybauskaite meets Poland's counterpart Bronislaw Komorowski who traditionally visits Lithuania to welcome its Independence. On the eve of the visit Komorowski told Polish national radio that it is the right moment to improve relations between countries.

After Parliamentary elections in 2012 October, a centre-left Government was formed which stressed the willingness to repair relations which were overshadowed by discussions regarding Lithuania's large Polish minority and their rights. Spelling of Polish names, bilingual street signs and education law often sparks controversy.

The fact that Electoral Action of Poles, representing Polish minority, is the member of new ruling coalition often leads analysts to conclusion that issues would be resolved and Lithuanian-Polish relations improved.

SHOTLIST:

Copy of Act of Independence

Photo of Council of Lithuania

President Dalia Grybauskaite awards sculptor Vladas Vildziunas

Soundbite (Lithuanian) VLADAS VILDZIUNAS, awarded sculptor:
My father was awarded by the President for very good farming 75 years ago. And now I feel similarly honored.

President awards conductor Modestas Pitrenas

Vs from commemoration near Presidential Palace

President Dalia Grybauskaite arrives at the commemoration

Lithuanian flag is raised

Estonian flag is raised

Latvian flag is raised

Soundbite (Lithuanian), DALIA GRYBAUSKAITE, saying:
Today we are independent and we have our own state. We managed to achieve an incredible progress and transform Lithuania into European state during couple of decades thanks to our joint efforts. Soon we will be entrusted to stand near European Union driving wheel. This witnesses a trust of international community in Lithuania.

Polish President Bronislaw Komorowski

Soundbite (Polish), BRONISLAW KOMOROWSKI, saying:
It is very important that Poland and Lithuania stresses independence of the neighbourer in such a way that commemoration of 1918 independence is attended by Presidents of both countries.

More of commemoration near Presidential Palace

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