Art and diplomacy: Lithuanian and French First Ladies met in Paris

On Wednesday, 6 November, the First Lady of Lithuania, Diana Nausėdienė, and the First Lady of France, Brigitte Macron, met at the Elysee Palace in Paris. They discussed First Ladies’ duties, responsibilities, and unique challenges. Mrs Macron and Mrs Nausėdienė also focused on joint cultural and social projects and discussed strengthening cooperation for humanitarian aid to Ukraine.

A key focus of the meeting was the Lithuanian Season in France, the biggest Lithuanian cultural project outside the country, held from 12th September to 12th December 2024. The Lithuanian Season in France represents more than 200 events, including musical festivals, photo exhibitions, and gastronomic tours, as well as approximately 500 participants, demonstrating how cultural exchange and soft power bridge nations and enrich communities.

The First Ladies reflected on its success, noting that cultural diplomacy is vital in promoting mutual understanding.

‘Lithuania is extremely pleased with the Lithuanian Season in France, which is based on a partnership built at the highest level between the Presidents of our two countries. We are delighted with the visits of institutions and arts and culture professionals, the agreements made during preparations, and the many events happening across France during these three months,’ – Diana Nausėdienė underlined.

The First Lady also expressed her gratitude to President Emmanuel Macron and Brigitte Macron for their continued attention and diverse support for Lithuania.

Later that day, both First Ladies inaugurated an exhibition of Lithuanian photography at Paris Photo, held at the iconic Grand Palais. This exhibition, held annually in Paris, features the work of more than 20 Lithuanian photographers and symbolises resilience and artistic freedom.

The First Lady of Lithuania referred to the event as a triumph of the ‘liberté’ and ‘fraternité’ principles. She noted that this is a historic and symbolic moment: in the magnificent Grand Palais, with over 120 years of history, Lithuanian photography is now showcased and made freely accessible to a broad audience of photography enthusiasts, thanks to the joint efforts of the French and Lithuanians.

‘Today, these spaces display Lithuanian photography – a form of art that was unjustly suppressed under the Soviet occupation but kept alive through the ingenuity and resilience of creative, tireless artists. This exhibition also introduces new themes and experimental approaches. It is a pleasure to engage in a cultural dialogue that shapes the choices and values within our shared artistic landscape,’ – Diana Nausėdienė said.

Furthermore, the First Lady of Lithuania visited the Nordic branch of the Sainte-Geneviève Library, where a section of Lithuanian children’s books was opened on the initiative of the French-Lithuanian community.

Photos by Eitvydas Kinaitis