"I am happy that the golden generation of athletes raised in Lithuania is ready to go forward with the national flag of our country. Your victory is not just an enormous victory but also a commitment to work in a responsible manner and continue to seek good results. Congratulations on your gold medal. It is the result of persistent work by yourself, your coaches, and families," the president said.
After awarding Meilutytė, the president awarded a letter of acknowledgment and a presidential memorial medal to her first coach Giedrius Martinionis.
Meilutytė, 15-year-old European 100m breaststroke record holder, won Lithuania's first post-independence Olympic medal in swimming events.
