Lithuanian-Ukrainian project 'Through Ages: Acquired Homeland' opened in Kyiv

KYIV. Aug 31 (Interfax-Ukraine) – On the occasion of the celebration of the Year of History and Culture of the Lithuanian Tatars, a joint Lithuanian-Ukrainian project "Through the Ages: Acquired Homeland" was opened at the Museum of Books and Printing of Ukraine, within which an exhibition of photographs by Arvydas Shemetas "Under the open sky" and "Road that became destiny" were opened.

"The history of the Tatars is another theme that unites Lithuania and Ukraine, and the history of the Lithuanian Tatars is closely related to the history of Crimea, therefore, marking the year of the history and culture of the Lithuanian Tatars, we want to once again draw attention to the problem of the historical homeland of the Tatars, Crimea," Ambassador of Lithuania to Ukraine Valdemaras Sarapinas said at the opening of the project in Kyiv on Monday.

Speaking in Ukrainian, the ambassador said this event is another reason for Lithuania to declare that it does not recognize the occupation of Crimea, supports the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine, opposes violations of human rights in Crimea and condemns Russia’s aggressive expansionary policy.

"Do not doubt that Lithuania was, is and will always be a reliable friend of Ukraine. We will always support you in the fight against Russian aggression. Believe me, in Lithuania this is an axiom supported by all Lithuanians," he said.

The exhibition "The Road that Becomes Destiny" in different ways tells about the formation of a unique modern ethnos, the Lithuanian Tatars.