Nausėda explains absence from Adamkus centennial: Germany trip was set in advance
Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda says he missed the celebration of former president Valdas Adamkus' 100th birthday because of a working visit to Germany scheduled in advance. Public activist Andrius Tapinas had criticised his absence.
Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda has responded to criticism over not attending the celebration of former head of state Valdas Adamkus' 100th birthday in Vilnius. The president's office says the working visit to Germany on that day was planned beforehand and took place on dates proposed by the host country. Adamkus turned 100 on Tuesday.
Criticism on social media
The office issued its explanation after public activist Andrius Tapinas questioned on Facebook why Nausėda did not take part. Tapinas rejected the office's reasoning, arguing that the president could have returned to Lithuania after the Berlin Security Conference and attended the event.
The Germany visit
According to the president's office, Nausėda's agenda had been announced publicly. It included meetings with German leaders, participation in the Berlin Security Conference and a Lithuanian-German business forum.
Personal ties with Adamkus
The office stressed that Nausėda and Adamkus have close personal ties. The president wrote a congratulatory speech himself, and it was handed to the event's organisers last week. He also phoned Adamkus on Tuesday to offer congratulations and plans to meet him later this week.
The celebration in Adamkus' honour was held at the Lithuanian National Opera and Ballet Theatre in Vilnius.
