2008 Press Releases
President Bush Congratulates 10th Anniversary of Baltic Charter
I send greetings to those celebrating the 10th
anniversary of the Charter of Partnership Among the United States and
the Republics of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. A decade ago, the U.S.-Baltic Charter helped launch the Baltic
States toward their goal of becoming full members of Europe and the
transatlantic community. By partnering together, our countries
demonstrated our commitment to achieve an integrated Europe in which
the security and sovereignty of each nation would be realized. In 2004, the NATO Alliance proudly welcomed Estonia, Latvia, and
Lithuania into the transatlantic community, based on a commitment to
freedom, security, justice, human rights, and free markets. Europe is
now closer to being whole and free, and the success of these nations
gives hope and support to all those who seek to lift themselves from
fear and oppression. On this occasion, we appreciate the peoples of the Baltic States who
endured tyranny and struggled for independence. They earned their
freedom through courage and perseverance, and today they stand with us
as partners in this great alliance, contributing to our common security. Laura and I send our best wishes on this important anniversary. May God bless you.
U.S. Embassy, Riga, Public Affairs Section
Smilšu iela 7
Rīga, LV 1050
Phone: 371 6750-9022
Internet: riga.usembassy.gov
Media specialist's e-mail: dilanes@state.gov