European Parliament President Roberta Metsola was honoured with the Grand Cross of the Order of the Lithuanian Grand Duke Gediminas by Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda.
This recognition was bestowed upon her for effectively garnering support from the majority of the EP’s political groups on key EU and Lithuania-related issues.
Metsola expressed gratitude and emphasised the award’s significance in reminding everyone of their duty to uphold democracy, freedom, and common European values.
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During her visit to Lithuania, Metsola accepted the Freedom Prize on behalf of the European Parliament, recognising their contributions to democracy, human rights, historical justice, and EU integration.
The European Parliament declined the cash prize, requesting the €11,000 be used for a freedom-supporting cause. The Freedom Prize is awarded annually on January 13, marking the tragic events of January 13, 1991, when Soviet forces attacked Lithuania’s Parliament, TV Tower, and Radio and Television building, resulting in casualties.
Metsola’s Lithuanian visit marked the beginning of a series of trips to member states aimed at promoting voter participation in the upcoming European elections on June 8. These visits involve meetings with national leaders and engaging with young people and civil society representatives in town hall discussions.
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