Skvernelis appeals to the Lithuanians: although we were successful in battle, the war has not yet been won

However, according to the Prime Minister, we have only won the battle, the war with the pandemic has not yet been won. Therefore, we must prepare for a marathon for which we are already more prepared than for the first wave of the virus.

Here is Prime Minister Skvernel’s full speech:

Dear Lithuanian people,

Exactly three months of quarantine have elapsed. Probably nobody could have imagined what threatening situation we would face and what urgent and difficult decisions we would have to make.

Tomorrow, June 17, the legal quarantine regime in Lithuania will end.

We go out slowly, cautiously, trying to avoid additional risks to our health and our lives.

The country will maintain a declared statewide emergency so that all agencies can respond in an instant if the virus strikes again. This is also necessary so that we can compensate for the losses that people suffer as a result of this extraordinary crisis.

I sincerely thank each Lithuanian person for their understanding, responsibility, patience and citizenship. Thanks to all of you, we have saved hundreds of lives and avoided many serious illnesses.

This is Lithuania’s victory. The victory of humanity.

On behalf of the Government, I would like to express my sincere thanks to the staff of our medical institutions, officials, pharmacists, cashiers, drivers, representatives of the communications sector, social workers, employers and volunteers. For all those who made sure that there was no shortage of basic goods and services. His contribution to the fight against the virus is invaluable.

A huge thanks to our socialists who came to the aid of the state when they needed it most. He has been in help lines, taking care of the most vulnerable, organizing security and logistics acquisitions, actions that deserve great respect and gratitude.

We understand that the service and tourism sectors, artists and everyone else whose activities have been restricted are still going through difficult times today. Unfortunately, uncertainty and instability have accompanied and continue to accompany many Lithuanians.

I want to make it clear: we will do everything possible to minimize the damage you have suffered. The state is trying to get there. We cannot allow “forgotten” people to remain in the country. Prudent injection of additional finance into the country’s economy is the main task for the next six months.

This is not a sprint, it is a marathon. We can only run it successfully by supporting our businesses and those who create jobs by paying taxes fairly. The state spent budget money responsibly for three years and built up a reserve. Therefore, today we have the funds not only to provide essential medical equipment, but also to help the country’s businesses.

Yes, there are those who say that the state could have reacted faster. Maybe, but we got into this situation without clear instructions on how to behave, what mechanisms will work and what will be hopelessly blocked. These are life lessons for each of us.

The COVID-19 challenge has led to the creation of a new DNA for our economy. We have prepared an ambitious long-term economic recovery plan worth € 6.5 billion, aiming for a more competitive, productive and efficient Lithuania.

At the same time, it is an opportunity to focus on all politicians and to demonstrate that we are capable not only of competing in political struggles, but also of working together for the benefit of the Lithuanian people. Here I want to ask colleagues to do exactly that.

Dear Lithuanian people,

Although we have been successful in battle, the war with the pandemic has not yet been won. Millions of people worldwide still suffer from this viral disease. Hundreds of thousands are dying. Vaccines and effective treatments are still lacking. However, today both in Lithuania and in our region, the preparation is on a completely different level.

However, the best protection for all of us is the conscience of all Lithuanian residents. We live in a new reality in which we must remain attentive to ourselves and to others. Weigh the risks before traveling or attending larger meetings. Let’s maintain the acquired habits of using, disinfecting and sanitizing protective equipment. Let us isolate if we suspect that we are infected.

In conclusion, I would like to emphasize that concern for the health of others in no way provides a pretext for social exclusion. Let’s take care of those who may be most affected by the virus. Let’s take care of our parents, grandparents, older members of our community. Let us take care and protect, maintaining humanity and a close social connection.

Dear compatriots

The threat of the coronavirus has brought our nation closer. May this connection last, help us to finally defeat the virus and heal all remaining wounds.

I wish you all a beautiful and safe summer! Let us remain responsible and do not give the virus a second chance in Lithuania.