“Bacevičius and Bacewicz: different roads, one family”

Ambassador Paulauskas
Ambassador Henczel
Excellencies
Ladies and Gentlemen:


It is my pleasure to welcome you to the Palais des Nations for this unique concert showcasing the work of two prominent composers of the same family, yet of different nationalities. I would like to express my appreciation to the Permanent Missions of Lithuania and Poland for bringing us this interesting, cross-cultural musical experience.

Clearly, Lithuania and Poland are two countries active on the international scene. This concert is being held in honour of the Lithuanian presidency of the European Union Council which ends this month.

And Poland, represented by Ambassador Henczel, is the current President of the Human Rights Council. The importance of these roles cannot and should not be underestimated.

The European Union is not only a key partner of the United Nations, it is a natural partner. Its commitment to effective multilateralism and close cooperation on issues across the UN agenda are globally respected. In addition, the EU shares our fundamental values and goals - international peace and security, sustainable development, and the promotion and respect of human rights and fundamental freedoms for all people. Lithuania has directly supported these broader goals during its presidency of the EU Council, implementing a wide-ranging programme on energy, and economic and social issues.

The Human Rights Council is the UN’s foremost body working for the promotion and protection of human rights globally. This past year, under Poland’s presidency, it has achieved significant progress, implementing an increasing number of mandates and shining a spotlight on grave human rights situations around the world. Tonight we have the privilege of applauding their cultural achievements.

There is no better place to enjoy the musical expressions of these different, yet interconnected countries than the Palais des Nations – a place where different roads can come together in harmony.

I hope you enjoy the performance.

Thank you very much.