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Statement by the Permanent Representative of the Republic of Lithuania H.E. Mr. Julius Pranevičius at the Informal meeting of the General Assembly to commemorate United Nations Charter Day on Friday, 26 June 2026.

Madam President, Excellencies,

Lithuania aligns itself with the statement delivered on behalf of the European Union and its Member States. I would like to add a few remarks in my national capacity.

This year, Lithuania celebrates 35 years as a member of the United Nations. As we mark UN Charter Day, this anniversary gives us an opportunity to reflect not only on the Charter’s history, but also on what its principles have made possible for countries like ours.

When Lithuania joined the UN in 1991, it was a recognition of our restored independence and our return to the international community after half a century of occupation.

That experience still shapes the way we see the UN Charter. We know how important it is when sovereignty is defended by law, when the equal rights of nations large and small are respected, and when a country’s place in the world is recognized because of its rights, not because of its size or power.

Over these 35 years, Lithuania’s story has also been one of transformation. We rebuilt democratic institutions, strengthened the rule of law, opened our economy and society, and invested in human rights, gender equality, civil society, education, innovation, sustainable development, and resilience.

We do not take this progress for granted. It was led by Lithuanians themselves, but it was also supported by an international order based on cooperation, dignity, rule of law, and peaceful relations among states.

Today, Lithuania seeks to contribute to that same order across the three pillars of the United Nations. Having benefited from international solidarity, we try to offer it to others through principled action, practical support, and partnership.

At the same time, we must be honest about the pressures facing the Charter today.

Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine violates the basic principles of this Organization, such as sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the prohibition of the use of force. For Lithuania, support to Ukraine is therefore also a defense of the Charter itself.

Our history tells us that aggression left without consequences returns in new forms. That is why accountability matters – for justice and for prevention. International law, international courts, and the peaceful settlement of disputes must be respected.

The United Nations itself also needs renewal. It must become more effective, transparent, and better able to respond to today’s challenges. Without it, the world would have fewer tools for peace, weaker protection for human rights, less humanitarian assistance, and fewer chances to advance sustainable development.

The selection of the next Secretary-General will be an important part of this renewal: the UN needs leadership that can defend the Charter, rebuild trust, and help bring the Organization closer to the people it serves.

The theme of today’s meeting is “One Charter, One Future.” For Lithuania, this means that the same rules must apply to all. No country should be above the Charter. No people should be left outside its protection.

35 years after joining the UN, Lithuania’s message is simple: the Charter and the UN remain as relevant as ever, and Lithuania will continue to do its part to defend both.

Thank you.