Lithuanian and Turkish Historical Relations: Letters of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk and the President of Lithuania Antanas Smetona

Abstract

Diplomatic relationship between Ottoman Empire and Grand Duchy of Lithuania were long-lasting. These well-disposed relations were continued after the declaration of the independence (Lithuania in 1919, Turkey in 1923). Diplomatic relationship between Turkey and Lithuania originated in 1930 after signing the Pact of Friendship (It was signed in Moscow.). Turkey did not acknowledge the occupation of Baltic States in 1944.

The President of Lithuanian Valdas Adamkus arrived on the official visit to Turkey in 2006. He got a present from the President of Turkey Ahmet Necdet Sezer on 21st of June, 2006. It was copies of letters, which were written by the President of Lithuania Antanas Smetona (he was the President of Lithuania form 1919 to 1920 and from 1926 to 1944) to the first President of Turkey Mustafa Kemal Atatürk (known as father of Turks). Sezer presented copies of correspondences, which had huge historical value, in the face of officers and journalists. These copies were – the ratification of comradeship between Turkey and Lithuania of 1930 and the document of accreditation of Turkish ambassador in Moscow of 1932. This symbolic present represented long–lasting well-disposed relationship, which lasted almost a century.

This report describes diplomatic relationship between Lithuania and Turkey. Also it presents letters of the presidents of both countries.