On July 4, as the United States of America celebrates the 250th anniversary of its independence, the largest foreign national flag ever displayed in Lithuania was raised on the Vilnius TV Tower.

As part of this joint initiative by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Lithuania, the American Chamber of Commerce in Lithuania, and the U.S. Embassy in Lithuania, two new records were set: the largest foreign national flag ever raised in Lithuania and the largest such flag ever displayed on the Vilnius TV Tower. The U.S. flag measures 540 square meters (5,813 square feet) and weighs 70 kilograms (154 pounds). Laid flat, it would cover an entire NBA basketball court.

At the event, Lithuania's Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs, Audra Plepytė, emphasized that this record-breaking event symbolizes the unbreakable bond between the two countries.

"The record-sized U.S. flag flying over Vilnius today is more than an impressive sight - it is a powerful symbol of our strategic partnership and the deep friendship between our nations. Lithuania and the United States are united by a fundamental and enduring belief that freedom and independence are the most cherished values that belong to every nation. As we celebrate this historic 250th anniversary of the United States, we reaffirm our commitment to safeguarding these values together and to continuously strengthening the close ties that unite our countries," said Audra Plepytė.

The ceremonial event at the Vilnius TV Tower was also attended by U.S. Ambassador Kara C. McDonald, Chairman of the Board of the American Chamber of Commerce in Lithuania, Tadas Vizgirda, and representatives of the Vilnius City Municipality.

To mark the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence, another symbolic initiative is also taking place: on the evenings and during the night of July 3-4, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and several other Lithuanian institutions participating in the initiative are illuminating their buildings in the colors of the U.S. flag.