tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4333560217294933012011-04-22T06:05:37.513+02:00Rundudundu is an expression that is not commonly used even in Lithuania where I come from. It is like a child invented word, which means nothing. For me RUNDU - stands for Rundis, this is how my friends tend to call me and DUNDU stands for loud and clear... So enjoy my thoughts loud and clear...Rundudundunoreply@blogger.comBlogger1061100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-5714332322118484382009-03-02T23:07:00.003+01:002009-03-02T23:17:32.331+01:00

Last week in Lithuania, the main headlines were occupied by sole person. Dalia Grybauskaite, Lithuanian, European Union Commissioner has finally announced that she is going to stand in the election for the Presidency of Lithuania, ending months of speculations whether or not she will compete for the top job. This decision marks a beginning of the campaigning, unofficial as it is, it will slowly

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-31050880392513395702009-02-23T17:04:00.001+01:002009-02-23T17:04:56.990+01:00

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-39626963463711193982009-02-11T22:55:00.004+01:002009-02-11T23:07:32.167+01:00

2008 ended with it and 2009 has had it all over, so far!What is the word? CRISIS! CREDIT CRUNCH! CRASH! CATASTROPHE! etc. etc. etc.Recently, I was reading a new book of Fareed Zakaria "Post-American World", where author rightly points out that while we scream and shout about contracting economies and free fall of our markets in fact it all is a matter of perspective. Truly. Zakaria and I trust

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-12233435075785626122008-12-27T20:12:00.004+01:002008-12-28T21:17:37.903+01:00

Its Christmas time and most of you would be enjoying warmth of people at its best and memorable family reunions, for sure I do. Christmas indeed a magical time for those that can afford some magic.In Lithuania Christmas Eve and Christmas are special. These festivities hold some clues to our identity, where we can express our nationhood and be on our own with things we believe in and we all share.

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-62657710112610744442008-12-10T21:52:00.004+01:002008-12-11T10:21:35.068+01:00

After months of delay and diplomatic wrangling largest European Security and Defence Policy operation - EULEX has initiated its deployment yesterday. For better or for worse it took a lot of time, effort and patience to get things moving, but they are moving and one can hope that this mission will offer greater access to justice to the people in Kosovo no matter their ethnic background.Initially

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-67387755557074480422008-12-05T11:45:00.004+01:002008-12-05T11:53:23.146+01:00

Further to the elections held on 12 and 26 October 2008, governing coalition was formed and headed by Homeland Union-Christian Democrats (TS/LKD) it includes Nation's Revival Party (TPP), Liberal Movement (LRLS), Liberal Centre Union (LiCS). Yesterday, President Adamkus, has approved the 15th Government of the Republic of Lithuania:Prime Minister - Andrius KUBILIUS (TS/LKD)Leader of the TS/LKD (

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-66455080348088022682008-12-02T14:05:00.003+01:002008-12-05T11:53:54.311+01:00

Acting Prime Minister of Israel and elected Leader of the Kadima party Tzipi Livni was visiting European Parliament Committee on Foreign Affairs. Few quotes from the meeting and few general notes that caught the ear of attentive listener."Peace negotiations with Palestine are bilateral and discreet. Until there is no final agreement, there is no agreement.""Both sides do not want to have an

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-57613740923853234652008-11-30T23:42:00.004+01:002008-12-05T12:10:14.861+01:00

Mumbai, India and the World was shaken by the events that unfolded last week. It is horrendous to imagine that attack was specifically aimed at causing as much as possible human lives and capturing foreigners that are visiting Mumbai or living there. It happened so that delegation of the European Parliament was also there. The fact that I was able to put the face of MEPs and one of my colleagues

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-82336169375699944242008-11-25T23:34:00.001+01:002008-12-05T12:10:14.861+01:00

Serbia for better or for worse recently has been the best worst friend of the European Union in the Western Balkans. European Union leaders without too much of hiding were discussing what outcome they would prefer in the elections that took place in the country in May. Later on the same leaders were quick to take some credit for being instrumental in ensuring victory of the democratic forces.Few

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-51436219726744658112008-11-21T17:53:00.003+01:002008-12-05T12:10:14.862+01:00

Following memo is a coverage of the lecture that Mr. Ahmed Rashid has given to the NATO Parliamentary Assembly that have met in Valencia. Mr. Rashid published an article in Foreign Affairs that one should definitely read - see link.“Taliban is winning but it can not win. NATO is loosing, but it can not loose.”Taliban can not take over the cities and establish their control over any significant

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-67375309005133135062008-11-04T22:14:00.005+01:002008-12-05T12:10:29.092+01:00

Final results of the vote Homeland Union-Christian Democrats (TS/LKD) - 45 seatsSocial Democrats (LSDP) - 25 seatsNation's Revival Party (TPP) - 16 seats"Order and Justice" (TT) - 15 seatsLiberal Movement (LRLS) - 11 seatsLabour Party (DP) - 10 seatsLiberal Centre Union (LiCS) - 8 seatsPeasants party (LVLS) - 3 seatsPolish Electoral Action (LRRA) - 3 seatsNew Union (social liberals) (NS) - 1

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-2316389229226599292008-11-03T14:35:00.002+01:002008-12-05T12:10:51.850+01:00

Obama should win. That is the view held by most Europeans. It turns out to be that if Obama would run in number of EU countries he would have a fair chance of winning as well. So is it a change we can believe in or expectations that have been raised to breathtaking heights? Being a better match for Presidential position after the G.W. can not be that difficult, but running the USofA in a truly "

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-14204909466122584532008-10-14T15:22:00.001+02:002008-12-05T12:10:29.092+01:00

BriefingThe outgoing Parliament (Seimas) is led by a complex multi-partite coalition led by the Social Democratic Party. Centre left coalition members are The Union of Peasants, Civic Democracy Party, the Liberal and Centre Union and the New Union/Social Liberals.16 political parties have competed in the elections of 12 October 2008. 141 members of parliament are elected for a four-year term.

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-76025618661702893952008-10-06T11:36:00.002+02:002008-12-05T12:10:29.093+01:00

The outgoing Parliament (Seimas) is led by a complex multi-partite coalition led by the Social Democratic Party. Centre left coalition members are The Union of Peasants, Civic Democracy Party, the Liberal and Centre Union and the New Union/Social Liberals. 16 political parties are competing in the elections of 12 October 2008. 141 members of parliament will be elected for a four-year term. About

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-4543336897802964982008-09-03T09:14:00.003+02:002008-12-05T12:10:51.851+01:00

EU leaders have gathered to the first emergency summit since the "September 11". Then EU Heads of States have expressed its solidarity with American people and committed to fight against terrorism by all means necessary. Current Presidency conclusions make few frown. The summit on Georgia produces results that are well appreciated in Moscow. I wonder if this can constitute a success. However it

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-81822955619391599572008-08-31T10:19:00.002+02:002008-12-05T12:10:51.851+01:00

Last few posts, I tried to share the picture of situation in Georgia by the words of my good friend who has just recently returned to live in Georgia from Brussels. I guess as conflict drags on it would be interesting to share few of my own observations about this conflict. First and foremost the reaction I got on August 8 was a feeling of deep shock and unease. Human suffering has no

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-69864397385051871972008-08-22T17:10:00.002+02:002008-12-05T12:10:51.852+01:00

Another letter from a friend in Tbilisi.21 AugustDear friendsfew more infos to keep you updated:- These days the websites which are created to present the opinion about the conflict, as it is seen from Georgia (not just from the government) are under non-stop "cyber attack". We basicaly can not keep any new webpage alive for more then a day or two.(see more http://www.crn.com/security/210003057 )

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-49018701755731666062008-08-16T21:25:00.003+02:002008-12-05T12:10:51.852+01:00

Another email from a friend15 AugustBy this time on Friday 15th August:- Russian navy, tanks and ground forces are still in Georgia. They keep Central and the big part of Western Georgia and the Port of Poti under occupation;- Few hours ago Russian military helicopters started bombing the south of Georgia, the bordering territories of the City of Borjomi (many of you have heard or been there as

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-77559532917922980032008-08-13T18:25:00.002+02:002008-12-05T12:10:51.853+01:00

Another email from a dear friend...13 AugustNow regarding the situation from yesterday till today - SADLY, but the SITUATION IS TERRIBLE HERE AND NOBODY YET KNOWS (see below!). DEAR FRIENDS IN REALITY THERE IS NO CEASE FIRE in GEORGIA!!!- Sarkozy's cease fire agreement was singed yesterday by the Georgian and Russian sides and 5 Presidents from Poland, Ukraine, Latvia, Estonia and Lithuania were

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-8057623631375623172008-08-12T12:43:00.002+02:002008-12-05T12:10:51.853+01:00

E-mail from a friend in Tbilisi:10 AugustNow about the general situation. Last 3 days entire country is under non-stop bombardment from the Russian airforce. I lost count to how many places they have attacked and how many they have destroyed... and seems this is not enough for them, as from this morning Russian warships have deployed near ports along the Georgian Black Sea coast, including Poti,

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-73937058488538415472008-07-11T13:33:00.003+02:002008-12-05T12:12:43.141+01:00

Lithuanian language might not be too well know for internationally acknowledged proverbs, but one fits perfectly into the list of nota bene international folklore!"Calm as Belgian"My Belgian friends, there is nothing negative in it, just the way "stupid" foreigners that happen to "occupy" your country perceive you from the distance.The reason I decided to share with you this piece of wisdom is

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-1357678364286823362008-07-11T11:10:00.002+02:002008-12-05T12:11:26.447+01:00

Excellent article published in The Financial Times yesterday.Western flattery ignores the dark reality of RussiaBy Garry KasparovPublished: July 10 2008 18:21 Last updated: July 10 2008 18:21Recently we have witnessed a flurry of high-profile and contradictory statements on the Russian state. In a role reversal, Russia’s leaders have been abnormally candid while several prominent western

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-65799759577893394922008-07-04T10:52:00.004+02:002008-12-05T12:11:26.447+01:00

Last week, I have had a privelege to attend the interesting training course on "Chinese Foreign Policy". Number of thoughts that came out of these facinating three days.China in many ways is not a country that can be covered by conventional wisdom or usual definitions. This is due to its size, history, culture and regime. This is not an excuse for making an effort in this direction, it is just a

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-62035523210724832132008-06-23T17:10:00.002+02:002008-12-05T12:12:43.142+01:00

It is worth an entry in the blog. This morning arriving at the office, I took my usual path that led me through security to the elevators that are secretly hidden in the sacred corridors of the European institution. I pressed up and the elevator doors opened in front of me to reveal the blinking light in dark confined space. Being a brave heart as I am, I stepped in and proceeded to 5 1/2 floor

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-47522592162949293912008-06-20T15:20:00.002+02:002008-12-05T12:12:43.142+01:00

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-37850528460845266132008-06-19T16:16:00.004+02:002008-12-05T12:12:43.143+01:00

Last week I was privilegged to be in New York. One of the most breathtaking cities in the world. For once I was also rather lucky with the weather, which did not seem like a possibility upon arrival. Plane from Frankfurt has been circling around JFK for an hour or so due to thunderstorms in the area, plane fuel levels were shrinking and finaly captain took a decision to go for Newark. Once we

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-39348454993232071282008-05-22T11:23:00.004+02:002008-12-05T12:12:24.550+01:00

Yesterday, May 21st 2008, the Alliance of Liberals and Democrats for Europe launched "www.theChangers.eu " as part of the campaign to encourage everyone to take action to reduce their environmental impact. The Changers campaign is multi-channel, including an interactive website "http://www.thechangers.eu/", a European on-line bannering campaign and a wide range of offline posters and promotional

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-39996607353377766472008-05-14T16:57:00.002+02:002008-12-05T12:12:43.143+01:00

"Busy" can sound BZ, BEEZEE, BUZY and many other things, but what it means...I have been busy lately, plenty of things on the table many of those things at the same time... for me busy in the past weeks meant not being able to go to the gym, attending meetings that I never wanted to attend, not being able to blogg, talking to the people I might not wish to talk, entertaining self importance,

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-57776500324082097902008-04-27T17:05:00.004+02:002008-12-05T12:12:43.145+01:00

Last week was colourful and full of travels. Starting last weekend, I managed to go to Holland, Lithuania, France and currently I am on my way to Iceland. It is when you travel to different places in such a short time span that you manage to realise the difference or indifference where you are in Europe. Its all too easy to simplify, or to say, that Europe becomes one bubble, it is not that

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-82433721205030008382008-03-18T11:26:00.006+01:002008-12-05T12:12:43.146+01:00

Yesterday renovation works on the Petillon metro station have been partially completed! Partially means that the main entrance has been opened, while the rest of the station still looks like a blast from the past - glorious Belgian '60s.When we moved to Brussels and found our current appartment, I have managed to use the main entrance of the metro only once and that was in February 2006. Now in

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-84444967233937607282008-03-13T13:24:00.004+01:002008-12-05T12:12:58.927+01:00

28 September 2008 is a date for the elections in Belarus. The last dictatorship in Europe will have its moment of fragility and yet again there are hopes for change. Can it change and what to expect...One of the political groups in the European Parliament has organised a Belarus week. An occasion to meet with opposition leaders and discuss their impressions of the current situation and plans for

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-52070525067307030772008-02-19T14:16:00.005+01:002008-12-05T12:13:42.583+01:00

16th of February 1918, a small country on the Baltic coast became independent and was embraced in its attempt to statehood by the international community.It would seem only appropriate to celebrate this occassion on a grand scale in Lithuania and abroad. This surely has happened, but... Historic anniversaries tend to become somewhat more formalistic and commemorative, rather than festive and that

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-88117217981317954452008-02-02T23:54:00.000+01:002008-12-05T12:13:42.583+01:00

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-34033440826801783202008-02-02T23:44:00.000+01:002008-12-05T12:13:42.584+01:00

Following the path of many good ideas that are out there...Reading today FT supplement "How to spend it", I have discovered a new way of discovering Paris. A different type of hotel :) It is not on the ground, not on water and while it is in the sky it is not on a plane... :) Amazing isnt't it. I can already see this stylish hotel room hanging in the air in New York, Rio or Rome. It is a very

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-29209766018039207602008-01-28T22:32:00.000+01:002008-12-05T12:13:42.584+01:00

When does inspiration strike you?Late at night? Early in the morning? Some time between your first cup of coffee and lunch?Is there one particular way of how to build ideas or most importantly how to make them come true? I was watching BBC and I was facinated by the project few determined young lads decided to pursue. Have a look.TRIBE WANTEDTribewanted is a unique community tourism project that

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-65639924741821985872008-01-01T13:40:00.000+01:002008-12-05T12:13:42.585+01:00

It appears to be that I am a person of New Years resolutions. It is somehow easier for me to make a promise on certain occassion and then keep it for an entire year. Last year, I stopped smoking with the first year of 2007 and since then not a single cigarette has entered my mouth for fun or pleasure.This year it will be much more complicated. I made a promise which is quite difficul to keep, but

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-30964604077394997952007-11-30T14:08:00.001+01:002007-11-30T15:02:22.729+01:00

At the time when ideology is found in hidden shelves of political parties in Europe. When liberal democracy and free market economy is the only way, what will the future offer for Lithuanian parties that find themselves somewhere in the centre of the political arena?Actors:Lietuvos Respublikos Liberalų Sąjūdis (LRLS)Lietuvos Liberalų ir Centro Sąjunga (LiCS)Lietuvos Socialliberalai (Naujoji

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-53183343694570233282007-11-29T15:17:00.000+01:002008-12-05T12:13:42.585+01:00

Yesterday in the course of a pleasant dinner in a lovely company a conversation took off that lead us in various directions, but one of the few interesting points that we touched upon is the global politics and what future Europeans can see for US.Mixed opinions emerged:- some said that US is going to implode and disintegrate and this is visible due to the trends in foreign policy as well as

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-13107698262375455432007-11-27T14:06:00.000+01:002008-12-05T12:14:06.787+01:00

December is an important moment for the relations between the EU and Russian Federation. In 2007, the active Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (PCA) between Russia and the EU - which both sides agree has become outdated and is no longer able to meet today’s challenges - is due to expire. The forthcoming elections to the State Duma on the 2nd of December 2007 will set the tone for the future

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-23537248251685037222007-10-29T17:52:00.000+01:002007-10-29T18:18:09.065+01:00

Weekends are great! Long live weekends! BUT... when you get back to the office all you can think of is the next weekend to come...it is not a rule, but it does happen to ordinary mortals like me...In the past few days, I was enjoying interesting conversations with wise people, which I would like to share with you...Few thoughts about Russia:- How do you treat a leader who is cynical authoritarian

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-4382345791031114642007-10-19T17:38:00.000+02:002008-12-05T12:13:42.586+01:00

Who like ignorance and hypocricy? Not me, not you. Though, no one is surprised that it exists and it can hurt people.One can not LIKE being in charge of the others, it is a responsibility and if you manage it well, you are able to sleep at night and seem to be a decent person, while if you do not manage it well and you are still in charge, this can be highly frustrating for all. Problem is that

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-50059675747852127892007-10-07T12:16:00.000+02:002008-12-05T12:13:42.586+01:00

I love my town. Vilnius is so beautiful in different seasons. Perfect stroll along Vilnia river in the Sereikiskiu park in the sunny day in autumn. Mosaic of colours playing in the wind. Smiling faces of friends helping you remember that you are home.Apart from enjoying the wonderful moments in my city I did some work and attended a establishing conference of the new European youth political

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-76709124731737358452007-10-06T18:22:00.000+02:002008-12-05T12:14:24.942+01:00

Washington is a beautiful city in many ways. I saw it now in various seasons and I must say that it is one of those places in the United States where European could feel comfortable. At least, I do. ALDE decided to visit the US in order to explore perspectives of transatlantic co-operation and get the feeling or at least a vague idea what the possible change of US administration could offer for

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-45973803634602153642007-10-06T16:45:00.000+02:002008-12-05T12:13:42.587+01:00

Month of September, was overwhelmingly busy for me. Extencive travel with no stops and breaks. So a lot to share and a lot to think of... I will post few impressions one after another in the blog in order to offer you an expose to all this travel accomoplished and things learned...SeptmeberEP Strasbourg session IALDE ad-hoc delegation to the United StatesLiJOT General Assembly EP Strasbourg

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-71242788099760160492007-09-14T13:33:00.000+02:002008-12-05T12:13:42.587+01:00

It has been quite a while now that I have not posted anything on my blog. Well the summer is over in all senses and I am back to my online habits and therefore I am back to rundudundu... ;)Hollidays...always too short and most often most memorable, it was a great period in many ways...lots of relaxation, discoveries and personal calmness while being with the person you love...In few words...New

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-21435455534947945292007-08-03T15:06:00.000+02:002008-12-05T12:13:42.588+01:00

Even if summer not up in the sky in most part of Europe, I am still posting my good bye... I am out for hollidays that were well deserved and longly awaited for...Taking off later this evening for Vilnius...will celebrate birthdays of cousins, see my parents in Siauliai, will attend a wedding of friends then visit adorable seaside and then back to Vilnius and will return to Brussels...and then...

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-14987563492041962482007-07-29T15:06:00.000+02:002008-12-05T12:13:42.589+01:00

On Friday during the French course that I am attending our teacher offered us to work on the questionnaire that was prepared by Marcel ProustAccording to the story this questionnaire was used by Proust to entertain Parisians, while being able to predict their characters and to which extent their personal features fit their current jobs, spouses or hobbies... This questionnaire is now used by

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-69929988941329836872007-07-27T13:54:00.000+02:002008-12-05T12:13:42.589+01:00

I think, I can call myself some sort of an expert on air travel and general arrangement of itineraries... I know that number of those that tend to read my blog, would have even greater expertise... I thought why don't we share a little piece of intelligence on vacation arrangement with each other... How about few questions that you would need to give an answer to?- Best website for the selection

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-1763193638637092532007-07-26T18:29:00.000+02:002008-12-05T12:13:42.590+01:00

After hard day of work we dream of clear blue skies, warmth of the summer breeze, closeness of the sea and lovely bunch of people surrounding us. There is a clear sense of achievement and the fact that we have deserved it call us to raise a glass for those that did not survive......strangely enough, I am still one of those that has the obligation of appearing at work everyday and staying there,

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-29582058198980619402007-07-17T18:38:00.000+02:002008-12-05T12:13:42.591+01:00

I have been working in the European Parliament for the last 6 months, what are the lessons learned and what keeps me willing to continue as long as my contribution is considered necessary.Lessons learned- EP is dependent on Mickey Mouse...- Monthly trips to Strasbourg is a waste...- Red, yellow, blue, pink, white colours got a completely new meaning in my life...- No matter who holds the

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-30670953862578110432007-07-12T16:57:00.000+02:002008-12-05T12:14:24.943+01:00

Some people are trying their bestest to be nice to the others. Going an extra mile in order give better service or provide a more extencive help. Those people are not too numerous, but they exist, but then sometimes not only your help is not appreciated, but you are considered to be stupid and you are taken advantage of...It seems like one needs to follow new rules:- Do what you are told and if

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-38299622136895466442007-07-06T15:49:00.000+02:002008-12-05T12:14:41.735+01:00

Today, I am going back to Vilnius, for a little weekend. It is strange when you think that in the past one year, I have been home only during Easter and Christmas break. I miss it and that is why, I am happy to have the chance of going HOME!

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-83155579897431653962007-07-02T21:50:00.000+02:002008-12-05T12:14:41.736+01:00

Shrek2Donkey was on the way with Fiona and Shrek to the kingdom of Far Far Away and he was constantly asking:"Are we there yet?"So am I constantly asking myself is Brussels the place I can call home?Yesterday something strage have happened. The painting that was decorating our living room for no reason since April, finally found its place on the wall where it was designed to be. This made me

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-59536861283475859342007-06-29T08:59:00.000+02:002008-12-05T12:14:24.943+01:00

News today heralded the new cabinet of long "wanna be" PM and now the PM, Gordon Brown. Brown chose well, with the style, I must say...Striking somewhat good balance between reliable confiances and new faces, he also managed to introduce feminine flavour into the serious portfolios like home affairs. FT on the 2nd page today speaks about the "young" foreign secretary David Miliband, who does look

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-79021054486087478252007-06-25T18:16:00.000+02:002008-12-05T12:13:42.591+01:00

REMEMBERING NUMBERS:You are at the counter and you are asked to enter your pin and you do not remember it, you try and you fail...you try and you fail... and then you flee, withdraw leaving all the goods you wanted to buy behind...REMEMBERING NAMES:Hi!How are you, Renaldas? Good to see you?Eeerrr... and how are you? All well? :)Sometimes you end up in these situations having no idea who are you

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-88326734888317754792007-06-20T11:01:00.000+02:002008-12-05T12:15:34.674+01:00

Published by Dr. Egdūnas RačiusThough Muslims are not a novelty in Europe, it is the post-WWII period when they started coming in great numbers to the ‘old’ continent. Most European states then designed and launched integration programs falling into one of the two broad categories, the assimilationist and multiculturalist. However, with time it became obvious that European liberal values,

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-62331225839851477692007-06-12T14:44:00.000+02:002008-12-05T12:15:34.674+01:00

Lyrics Maroon 5 Makes Me Wonder Lyrics

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-60803190588423626152007-06-11T14:45:00.000+02:002008-12-05T12:15:34.675+01:00

Today during the plenary gathering of the Inter Parliamentary Forum on the Future of Europe taking place here in Brussels in the European Parliament, I came up with new innovative name for the Constitution. I suggest Text KFC or Text Known Formerly as Constitution :)I still do not understand whether people suggesting to get rid of the title realise that it won't change anything in the minds of

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-76195248274020618952007-06-05T15:15:00.001+02:002008-12-05T12:15:34.675+01:00

I have not been outspoken last week, due to the fact that my one and only parents paid an official visit to Brussels for an entire week. It is a an annual occassion that is becoming some sort of wonderful tradition, nevertheless, quite a painful one sine someone has to take care of them.Well, I wonder why, but my parents are like imagine small children to be. Changing mood with no explanations,

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-2875514238571971842007-05-29T17:43:00.000+02:002008-12-05T12:15:34.676+01:00

It is hard to believe that Peter is no longer with us. Just last week when I was in Strasbourg, I was speaking to a colleague in COE DYS and asked to send greetings to Peter and tell him that I would like to visit him during June session... I will not be able to do that... But I will cherish the memory of Peter as an intellectual, as an encouraging colleague, as a great company and most of all

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-19231742283383544002007-05-22T22:45:00.001+02:002008-12-05T12:15:34.676+01:00

I am in Strasbourg for another EP craze or in other words session... Long hours of work, socialisation, recapitualtion, regeneration and here it goes again... Usualy I stay at a friend (big thanks Albina) this time is different. I decided to stay at the European Youth Centre... was quite funny to get a room 311 which is right in front of our former office with Miros, where I can still see a

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-45581661776339478652007-05-21T20:58:00.000+02:002008-12-05T12:15:56.173+01:00

A very interesting article... By Wolfgang Munchau, FT.com Published: May 21 2007 03:00 A voting share of 53 per cent sounds impressive. But a closer analysis of the French presidential election throws up a perplexing result. According to Ipsos*, the polling organisation, 18-59 year olds - those who work and pay most of the taxes - overwhelmingly voted for Ségolène Royal, the defeated Socialist

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-71798676807494693412007-05-20T16:10:00.000+02:002008-12-05T12:15:34.676+01:00

Sunday morning rain is falling Steal some covers share some skinClouds are shrouding us in moments unforgettable You twist to fit the mold that I am inBut things just get so crazy living life gets hard to doAnd I would gladly hit the road get up and go if I knewThat someday it would bring me back to youThat someday it would bring me back to youThat may be all I needIn darkness she is all I

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-20949872438117502762007-05-17T19:31:00.000+02:002008-12-05T12:15:34.677+01:00

Whenever you get tired or you feel lost there are places you go to regain your strengths. Sometimes it is people you see that makes you happy. Sometimes is just a mere feeling of doing something that is good. Doing it not for them, but for us, no because of them, but because of us. Because we meant to create a chain of reactions that makes this planet swing and sing..Doing good - feeling good -

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-32341941736469139182007-05-11T16:30:00.000+02:002008-12-05T12:15:34.677+01:00

I have grown to like this quote a lot:"Nothing is sometimes a good thing to do and always a good thing to say."

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-62492224979170919902007-05-10T16:58:00.000+02:002008-12-05T12:15:34.677+01:00

I always thought that my ability to learn languages is somewhat above average, but the current difficulty in tackling French is simply destroying me...Just had a level test for an intensive course in the Parliament and they told me, your grammar sucks, you do not use articles (in English either), you have difficulties in separating gender and your pronouncation deserves a little polishing...the

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-59116937125557827322007-05-09T14:12:00.000+02:002008-12-05T12:15:56.174+01:00

Two cities - two capitals - two different countries.I was in Berlin for the last two days and was somehow thinking a lot of things that were happening in Tallinn and eventually some thoughts crossed my mind on the funny curves of history on this continent... While in Estonia, Bronze soldier was moved to military cemetery and this created a serious trouble for EU - Russia relation, the other

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-61897618882999574192007-05-03T10:47:00.000+02:002008-12-05T12:15:56.174+01:00

Bloggers action to support Estonia! Join now!

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-2245515780101819242007-05-02T19:39:00.000+02:002008-12-05T12:15:34.678+01:00

20000 people were attending the Open Days of the European Parliament in Strasbourg yesterday. One might say a great moment for citizens to get in touch with the institution or vice versa...It was my first time experience with an event of this type and I have to admit, I had no clue what was coming. From 1000 until 1800 stand of ALDE group was surrounded by the army of demanding individuals that

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-57157898803106333732007-04-27T16:06:00.000+02:002008-12-05T12:15:56.174+01:00

It started... Show has started. A lot of talking was done, a lot of time has passed and last night famous Bronze soldier was removed from the centre of Tallinn.Sadly this process was framed in the outrage of hooligans that broke windows and burned kiosks. One person died and 44 were injured, clashes were registered between police and protesters that gathered around the bronze soldier for their

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-9542672311225685962007-04-26T12:12:00.000+02:002008-12-05T12:15:56.175+01:00

Do not swear. Do not look behind your back. Do not make any hectic moves. AirMarshal is somewhere around you...Annoying to know that there will be one ticket less for sale and one more reason to be watched. This security craze is ridiculous...Agence France Presse -25 April 2007 StrasbourgEU lawmakers backed on Wednesday the use of armed "sky marshals" on flights in the 27-nation bloc, but

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-9970768169740074112007-04-25T11:27:00.000+02:002008-12-05T12:15:34.678+01:00

Almost a month ago Lithuania was electing its new municipal representatives. See my earlier post on that. Finally our capital three weeks after the poll agreed on the new mayor and the new leadership. Votes produced a broad range of parties entering into the City Council where Liberal Democrats (14) (party of the impeached President) took most seats, followed by Conservatives (10), Liberal Centre

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-10790240554726784992007-04-23T20:26:00.000+02:002008-12-05T12:15:34.678+01:00

Some frazes are making me tired:"Its the way it is...", "You will see, it is impossible...", "It has always been like this...", "Welcome to reality..."I am a believer that it is always good to ask questions, rather sheepishly follow... Experience shows that, you can always do things better and you can always improve... But change is a tricky thing... You do not know whether it is good or bad,

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-82539212261743822092007-04-20T14:44:00.000+02:002008-12-05T12:15:34.679+01:00

"Experience is simply the name we give our mistakes." -- Oscar WildeWhen we were small and miserable or adorable depends on the perspective, we used to fall. Falls were followed by stand ups and continuation of experiences that this world generously offered us... We did not know of gravity or atmosphere or how small this planet is and how self important we can be... We knew some things for sure

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-34863858764508229852007-04-19T11:00:00.000+02:002007-04-19T17:46:00.811+02:00

Is online communication evolving with an excessive speed providing us only with comfortable solutions or offers a real possibility of changing the way we communicate and relate to each other, not to mention the way we govern each other.One of the definitions of the e-democracy is the ongoing need to further democratise and make ICT tools more accessible on the other hand it is also aiming at

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-32937348139431547562007-04-16T14:03:00.000+02:002008-12-05T12:15:34.679+01:00

Fantastic weather, beautiful seaside, amazingly sunny...Yesterday I went with some friends to enjoy the Dutch seaside, in fact quite a nice small resort town of Domburg was a pleasant place to lay on the sand and forget about the troubles of the week... I forgot it so well, that I forgot to take of my sunglasses when I fell asleep... After I arrived back home and took of my glasses, I saw the

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-46294688601483094312007-04-15T22:23:00.000+02:002008-12-05T12:15:34.680+01:00

In one week French people will vote in the first round of Presidential elections, choice is wide - 12 candidates...Front runners are the 3 men and 1 women - Sarkozy, Bayroy, Le Pen and Royal. Only 2 of those 4 will advance to the next round. From what I read no one is able to be 100% sure about who those 2 will be, one is clear Sarko is in, but who is the second hopeful, that is a big question...

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-74690159554002803832007-04-13T15:57:00.000+02:002008-12-05T12:15:34.680+01:00

Following the post of Pedro and follow up from Mark, see the press release of our group in the European ParliamentLiberal and Democrat group leader in European Parliament demands immediate release of MEPSurprised and disturbed at the news of the arrest of an ALDE MEP in his own country by British military police whilst on a parliamentary delegation visit to Akrotiri in Cyprus, Graham Watson MEP

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-83410829503024774622007-04-12T12:28:00.000+02:002008-12-05T12:15:56.175+01:00

For the last two days, I am visiting Warsaw, together with the high level group of MEP's from the Constitutional Affairs Committee of the EP. This visit included meetings with Polish Senate and representatives of Ministry of Foreign Affairs. It is worth saying that we did not meet representatives from Sejm as those were not interested in such an opportunity...Yesterday the delegation met with

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-91833002541649107752007-04-10T13:52:00.000+02:002008-12-05T12:15:34.681+01:00

I was born in a strange country... We had no snow on Christmas, but we were covered with snow on Easter... :) I am not kidding - 9th of April 2007 it was snowing in Lithuania... I was afraid if my plane will take off, but luckily all worked out...Tomorrow, I am going to Warsaw, my first mission for the new job!

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-63182331056649586822007-04-04T12:04:00.000+02:002008-12-05T12:16:52.410+01:00

I am going back home. It will be a rather short break, but the first one since Christmas. Long awaited and well deserved.Easter in Lithuania is closely related to Eggs and their painting... it is even a recognised form of art... I guess as every year, I will have to become an artist as well :)Enjoy the break!

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-40871292148454915082007-03-30T15:51:00.000+02:002008-12-05T12:16:52.411+01:00

***when you are not around there's something incompletewhen you are not around the winter turns to heatwhen you are not around I wish that I have knownthe road to go alone, the way to find my own...when you are not around I am empty, naked, barewhen you are not around I drown into despairwhen you are not around there's nothing I won't do,but things remain the same and everywhere is you...I am up

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-75554484875078686552007-03-29T10:34:00.000+02:002008-12-05T12:16:52.412+01:00

Some people blame it on luck... we are unlucky to be in a group with Italy, France, Ukraine, Scotland, Georgia, Faroe Islands... some others got used to it and say that this will never happen...I thought our football is getting better...draw with Italy, fare resistance to France and Ukraine...lost 1:0 in both cases, but the fact is our players are demotivated and tired of loosing... we are

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-10365336492386420592007-03-28T14:22:00.000+02:002008-12-05T12:16:52.412+01:00

Over and over again, I realise that the greatest appreciation or rather most attractive qualities in the human being are those that are not shown in public... We seek to be professional, receptive, approachable and social, however not always we are what we want others to believe... What disturbs me the most is people that tend to speak their minds behind your back... on the other hand, I am

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-51079220275937938922007-03-23T14:16:00.000+01:002008-12-05T12:16:52.413+01:00

50th anniversary for EU and no one knows if we will see another one? Well at least I will consider myself lucky if in 2057, I will still be here, not to mention the Union.These were the most peaceful years for Europe and still we had nightmare of Srebrenica, bloodshed in Kosovo, there is still a capital of the EU state that is separated by conflict...These were the richest years for Europe and

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-62415577936245770072007-03-22T13:46:00.000+01:002008-12-05T12:16:52.414+01:00

I sometime feel betrayed for thinking about liesI feel oblidged sometimes to share the truth with foesThe world is full of love and tenderness inside,but we are facing hate as this is what we are...Forgive me for despair and darkness of my thoughtsJust let me fly again to heights to depths to youThe world is full of beauty in you I see its painbut we are all just humans and this is what remains..

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-85341133218605359712007-03-19T10:21:00.000+01:002007-03-19T10:47:00.105+01:00

It is quite funny, but whenever Lithuanians criticize situation in Russia or oppose certain positions that might be favourable to Russia, our EU friends tend to call us paranoid and over-reactive... Well, are we?PoliticsOn number of occassions our "big neighboor" have shown that there are ways of indirect influence of national politics in the countries that are considered and actually used in the

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-67975489786884622332007-03-17T14:45:00.000+01:002008-12-05T12:16:52.414+01:00

Happiness can be big, small, affectionate, but most of all contagious...I am happy, because there is no reason not to be!

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-56384281202241379312007-03-16T09:04:00.000+01:002008-12-05T12:16:52.415+01:00

It has been a while since my last post... I was consumed by work... Too much on my plate and it looks like just yesterday I was complaining of slow tempo in the European Parliament...Finally the wave of action went into my ward... :)I feel somehow melancholic today...it is probably the foggy weather of Brussels that makes you think and takes you places, without leaving your desk... I

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-57350423012903509522007-03-07T12:25:00.000+01:002008-12-05T12:16:52.415+01:00

So what are they talking about?1. They talk about Constitution that is ratified by 18, liked by 4 and disliked by 5 :)2. They say that Constitution should be revised while bringing additions rather than cuts3. They think that climate change, euro, Copenhagen criteria, fight against terrorism, greater social dimension could enhance the current text of the treaty to make it more attractive4. They

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-45014394863807491452007-03-06T16:40:00.000+01:002008-12-05T12:16:52.416+01:00

...is it routine or its the bad weather, is there anything positive around me or it is just me being annoyed for no reason......is this the life, I wanted to get back or is it just jet lag after getting too high too soon......is this me or is this you?Am I scared to be myself or am I not brave enough to face the mirror?Who are my friends and why do I think so?...666 for the devil, but 000 for

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-69951534101464714622007-02-27T11:08:00.000+01:002007-02-27T11:30:13.305+01:00

On Sunday Lithuanians went to elect their municpal leaders, well as the turn out shown, Lithuanians rather did not go for that option... 36.5% of voting population came, what do you make of this number?Socialdemocrats said that this number represents satisfaction of electorate in the policies that their municpal leaders were developing (SDP won last elections and these one too), others were

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-57041437666807805302007-02-23T10:54:00.000+01:002008-12-05T12:16:52.416+01:00

It is quite sad to understand that people are disapointed with you, well actually not with what you are, but with what you were not able to be... Expectations, expectations, expectations - people are full of those and they see your reflection through their own angle, which changes you in a way is easier for the other to comprehend u, appreciate u or love u...My wish was always to be true to

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-51901850687918351802007-02-20T15:51:00.000+01:002008-12-05T12:16:52.417+01:00

Užgavėnės is one of the few really happy festivities in Lithuania. In fact for many Lithuanians this festival associates with pancakes and burning of More (symbol of winter/death/cold/bad stuff). It is also quite usual that on this day you would need to have pancakes at home and sweets in the drawers as according to old tradition the beggars are allowed to go around the houses and ask for food

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-20234486033390944492007-02-19T13:01:00.000+01:002008-12-05T12:16:52.417+01:00

Weekend past so quickly again... Saturday involved a lot of physical activity we went went on biking with Neringa and her colleague Francisco and his girlfriend Sussane. I was never a fan of outdoor activities, but it seems I am starting to like it... it just cleans your head from different thoughts and gives you a chance to breathe... We went to Tervuren village, they have a very cozy tavern

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-40939674065452452822007-02-15T15:29:00.001+01:002007-02-15T15:29:48.860+01:00

Today is the Independence day of my country. I guess Lithuania is one of the few countries where two independence days are celebrated. Therefore it is important to strike the difference between the two.1918 February 16 is a day of re-establishment of Lithuanian State (direct translation from Lithuanian)On that day Lithuanian Council has signed the declaration of independence. This declaration

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-64072820395136628222007-02-13T16:29:00.000+01:002008-12-05T12:16:52.418+01:00

Last weekend me and Neringa spent in Rome. It was our hide-away for the Valentines day. Whenever I come to Roma, I am overwhelmed by Italian way of life: food, culture of expression, service and comforting feeling of homefullness! We managed to see the majority of attractions in the city: Colleseum, Piaza Venezia, Trevi fountains and many many more... one of the most interesting experiences was

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-37687948048273555522007-02-05T10:20:00.000+01:002008-12-05T12:16:52.418+01:00

Just started to read "Idiot" by Dostoevskij, at first I was slightly sceptical as it described a realities of early 19th century of Russia, which is rather boring, and beginning of the book was messy, not to mention that unfortunately, I did not manage to find an original version, so I am reading a Lithuanian translation and it is not that good... but I have to say, that after page 40 it started

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-2068201829847343132007-02-02T15:32:00.000+01:002008-12-05T12:16:52.418+01:00

THE ESCAPEAgain, I am like crazy running in the nightIn the filthy, dusty trainNobody will reach my mind...Again, in a rainy window I see my sad reflectionI will touch his sad eyes and please,Take me to the future, take me to this morning...Take me I need to meet him, until the roads will end...Again, I am leaving someone far away, someone won't see me againSomeone won't meet me again, but maybe

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433356021729493301.post-34170745110340624042007-02-01T09:16:00.000+01:002008-12-05T12:16:52.419+01:00

Have you seen faces of the people that go to work every morning? Reading free news papers, listening to iPOD, staring into last night dream or reality... Those faces can be scary and sometimes quite funny...Since I started to work in the Parliament, I am usually taking the same metro route at approximately the same time every morning, so on my list there couple of strangers that I must see,

Rundudundunoreply@blogger.com0