CONGRATULATORY LETTER FROM FOREIGN MINISTER

UNCLAS VILNIUS 000043 SIPDIS DEPARTMENT FOR S/ES E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: OPDC PREL LH SUBJECT: CONGRATULATORY LETTER FROM FOREIGN MINISTER USACKAS TO SECRETARY CLINTON ¶1. The Ambassador received a copy of the following letter January 22 from Lithuanian Foreign Minister Vygaudas Usackas for Secretary Clinton. Usackas said the original would be forwarded to the Department via the Lithuanian Embassy in Washington. ¶2. Begin text: Dear Secretary Clinton: Please accept my congratulations on your appointment as Secretary of State of the United States of America. Today the United States of America and Lithuania enjoy a strategic partnership -- we are allies and partners in NATO missions and operations, we have joined our efforts in creating a democratic space in the east of Europe, as well as in building peace and stability around the world. The United States presence in our region has always been of major importance for Lithuania. That is why I am thankful for U.S. political support for the NATO Air Police mission in Lithuania and the U.S. troops' participation in it. Let me take this opportunity to express the gratitude of my country for the recent U.S. decision to waive visas for Lithuanian citizens. I am sure this will pave the way to further developing economic and cultural cooperation between our nations, as well as strengthening personal and family ties. Today, as our world faces many challenges, I believe that the importance of the transatlantic link is growing more than ever. Please be assured that Lithuania, as a member of NATO and the EU, will continue supporting the United States, working together to help the world achieve peace and prosperity. Sincerely, Vygaudas Usackas End text. CLOUD