27 March 2026 marked a significant milestone for the Baltic Defence College (BALTDEFCOL) as H.E. Mr Gitanas Nausėda, President of the Republic of Lithuania, conducted an official visit to the institution.
The President was accompanied by H.E. Mrs Gitana Skripkaitė, Ambassador of the Republic of Lithuania to the Republic of Estonia, and General Raimundas Vaikšnoras, Chief of Defence of the Republic of Lithuania.
The visit commenced with a formal welcome by the Commandant of BALTDEFCOL, BG Alvydas Šiuparis, alongside General Vaikšnoras. During the reception, the President was introduced to the College’s leadership and Lithuanian staff members.
Following a private office call, staff and participants of the Higher Command Studies Course and the Joint Command and General Staff Course gathered in the Main Hall for a keynote address by President Nausėda.
In his address, the President highlighted the evolving security challenges facing the region. Addressing the students directly, he emphasised the institution's role in leadership development:
"I believe that BALTDEFCOL’s main task is to help our future leaders in transitioning from tactical mastery to operational and strategic competence. I offer three charges for your studies: first, do not be afraid to challenge conventional knowledge or proven solutions; the battlefield of tomorrow demands innovative thinkers. Second, engage with your faculty in discussing the value of a 'whole-of-nation' approach. Thirdly, the relationships you build here will form the backbone of our future cooperation."
The President’s speech was followed by an interactive Q&A session. This provided students with a rare and exceptional opportunity to engage directly with a Head of State regarding contemporary security affairs and the strategic challenges facing the Baltic States and the international community.
Photos by Mr Raido Saar & the President‘s Communication Group
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