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The Alliance of Liberals and Democrats for Europe welcomes the accession of Lithuania to the European Union’s presidency and welcomes the focus on the internal energy market and the Eastern Partnership programme. Liberals and Democrats also wish that Vilnius will take advantage of this period to improve the rights of minorities.
Cecilia WIKSTRÖM (Folkpartiet liberalerna, Sweden) said. “Europe is primarily a Union of values, common universal values, one of which is the principle of anti-discrimination. Europe was not created to protect states but individuals. Therefore we regret that the Lithuanian Parliament has rejected legislation recognizing gay rights, and that the Gay Pride parade is still prohibited in Vilnius this summer. “
Sophie in’t Veld (D66, Netherlands) said: “I urge the Lithuanian presidency to lift the ban on Gay Pride which is scheduled for July 27th. This would give Vilnius the image of a colorful city open to all. I will go to Vilnius myself to celebrate diversity. “
Leonidas DONSKIS (Liberal Movement, Lithuania), concluded: “We are the first country in the former Soviet Union to assume the presidency of the EU. This is a new historic role for my country which was one of the main challenges for Russia. But in this postmodern world, tyranny remains. Armed with experience, Lithuania must fight for the Eastern Partnership countries aspiring to democracy. “
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