The event, now in its 13 edition, was organized by the Italian embassy in Lithuania and saw the participation of more than 150 children, between the 4 and the 14 years, accompanied by the teachers and numerous interpreters who assured synergy and complete interaction between the participants.
The Italian soldiers in Šiauliai spent the day at Vilnius with their children on an appointment that provided for various sports and leisure moments: from an artistic entertainment of an Italian music group to baseball and American football lessons offered by the military of US Army and the Lithuanian Armed Forces and Police, as well as entertaining scooter routes with the local Vespa Club.
During the visit, gifts were given to all the children who did not hesitate to ask numerous questions to the pilots and specialists of the Air Force present on the flight activities and on the Eurofighter Typhoon aircraft.
The Italian ambassador of Vilnius and promoter of the “Bukime Kartu 2015”, dr. Stefano Maria Taliani De Marchio, inaugurated the event stating that "it is exciting to observe the curiosity and desires of children who will one day contribute to the construction of the future and together with them we want to spend a meaningful day, telling about Italy, its geography , people and culture. Today we want to encourage them to visit our country too, and to reside in an increasingly united and supportive Europe. Children are energy, curiosity and joy and today we want to offer a positive sign that with trust and passion you can always win the challenges of life. Finally, I thank the numerous public institutions, the international Armed Forces and in particular the Italian Air Force that with love and dedication works in the world with an unconditional spirit of service and for the noble charitable initiatives in which it participates ".
.jpg)
Colonel Vito Cracas, commander of the Italian TFA, after thanking the ambassador, highlighted the importance of these activities in favor of the local community: "For us it was important not only to give a tangible sign of our presence in Lithuania, for through the NATO mission we are called to fulfill, but also by offering society and above all less fortunate children a window on the culture and traditions of our country, which is why we are honored to spend this day of profound ethical and moral value. the voluntary contribution of all Italian personnel, in fact, has already been collected a sufficient sum to donate equipment for an orphanage, and our commitment will make possible further offers within the next few weeks ".
Finally, the president of the Vilnius International Club, organizer of the event, said: "For more than a decade, and more specifically for thirteen years, we aim to provide immaterial support for Lithuanian children living in foster homes. This year they are also reached by children from Ukraine, coming from difficult situations. We want children to feel accepted and have a carefree day and we hope that every year we will be able to help children find inspiration to achieve life goals and to integrate into society more easily and above all to become self-sufficient. For these children it is particularly important to be involved in social, cultural and sporting life and to think courageously about the future ".
Source: TFA, Lithuania - cap. Andrea Lanzilli
