Council of Europe Prize 2003

Klaipeda is the second city of the UBC after our neighbour and twin-city Gdynia and the first in the three Baltic States to have been awarded the highest possible distinction that can be bestowed on a European city for international activities and propagation of European unity ideas on the local level. In 2005 this Prize established by the Council of Europe will celebrate its 50 years' jubilee.

18 active twinning, membership in international organizations, numerous international projects and traditional international city events served the arena for wide participation of citizens from the local authority, institutions to grass-root level. If you spoke to a family in Klaipeda, you would hear that at least one of the members has at least once participated in an international project or activity. Lots of them have become friends with their former project partners. A common view at the airport is flowers, friendly hugs and kisses meeting official delegations or even tears of farewell. This is the evidence of long lasting, fruitful contacts, interesting and valued by both parties.

Over 15 years of internationalization that started already before restitution of Independence, we became convinced that it very positively influences practical local politics and accelerates urban development dynamics. Whatever international projects we initiated or were partners of, the ultimate goals has always been a reform, integration of Lithuania

into the EU and strengthening of European spirit among our population. The prestigious Prize on the threshold of Lithuania's accession to the European Union is a wonderful gift to the 750 years' long history of our town. Delegates of 25 nations present at the official Europe Prize award ceremony during the 7th UBC General Conference at Klaipeda Drama Theatre on October 17, 2003 shared this exceptional moment of our city life.

In May a new era for Europeans begins. Klaipeda Council of Pupils organises a study visit to Brussels & EU institutions. It is our hope that the enthusiasm and energy of the young, their knowledge and serious work be the engines that drive the life of the united Europe.