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Andrius KubiliusPolitician, Chairman of the Union of the Fatherland Party
Date of Birth: 08.12.1956
Country:  Lithuania |
Content:
- Andrius Kubilius: A Prominent Lithuanian Politician
- Political Activism
- Parliamentary Career
- Prime Ministership
- Leadership of the Union of the Fatherland
- Opposition Leader
- Merger and Electoral Success
- Return to Prime Ministership
- Personal Life
- Legacy
Andrius Kubilius: A Prominent Lithuanian Politician
Early Life and CareerAndrius Kubilius was born on December 8, 1956, in Vilnius, Lithuania. He graduated from Vilnius University in 1979 with a degree in physics. After graduation, he worked at the university as a laboratory assistant, engineer, and researcher until 1990.
Political Activism
In 1988, Kubilius became a member of the Lithuanian movement for perestroika, "Sajudis." He played a key role in the movement's efforts to achieve Lithuania's independence. In 1990, he was elected executive secretary of the "Sajudis" council.
Parliamentary Career
Kubilius was first elected to the Lithuanian parliament, the Seimas, in 1992. He served as parliamentary faction leader for the "Union of the Fatherland" (Conservative) Party. He was re-elected in 1996 and served as First Deputy Chairman of the Seimas and Chairman of the European Affairs Committee.
Prime Ministership
In November 1999, Kubilius was appointed Prime Minister of Lithuania. He held this position until 2000. During his term, he oversaw the signing of an agreement with the American company, Williams, for the sale of the Mazeikiu Nafta oil complex.
Leadership of the Union of the Fatherland
In 2003, Kubilius was elected chairman of the "Union of the Fatherland" (Conservative) Party. He led the party into the 2004 parliamentary elections, where it emerged as the second-largest faction. In January 2005, Kubilius became the leader of the opposition in the Seimas.
Opposition Leader
As opposition leader, Kubilius was a vocal critic of the government led by President Valdas Adamkus. He proposed constitutional changes to elect the President in the Seimas rather than by popular vote. He also advocated for limits on dual citizenship and measures to promote population growth.
Merger and Electoral Success
In May 2008, the "Union of the Fatherland" and the Christian Democrats merged to form the "Union of the Fatherland - Christian Democrats of Lithuania" (TS-LKD). Kubilius was elected chairman of the new party. In the 2008 parliamentary elections, the TS-LKD emerged as the largest political force in Lithuania.
Return to Prime Ministership
After leading the TS-LKD to victory in the 2008 elections, Kubilius became Prime Minister for the second time. He implemented significant budget cuts in response to the global financial crisis.
Personal Life
Kubilius is married to Rasa Kubiliene, a violinist with the Lithuanian National Symphony Orchestra. They have two sons, Vitautas and Andrius.
Legacy
Andrius Kubilius is a respected and influential figure in Lithuanian politics. As Prime Minister and opposition leader, he has played a key role in shaping Lithuania's foreign and domestic policies. He is known for his pro-Western stance and his commitment to Lithuania's independence and sovereignty.
