Other events in Baltic States

Monthly magazine Valstybe has announced Lithuanian swimmer Ruta Meilutyte as the person of the year. For four years the magazine has selected people who the editorial office deems having made the greatest contribution to the development of economically and civically strong state, informs LETA/ELTA.

At the end of 2013 the editorial office selected 17 nominees. The final decision depended on the poll conducted by Vilmorus, a public opinion and market research centre. More than one thousand Lithuanian residents were polled, 75.5 percent of whom voted for Meilutyte.

It is noted that Meilutyte was evaluated not only for her achievements in sports but also for her civic activities.

Last year, Meilutyte's charity and support foundation was launched which organized family swimming tournament on 22 December. During winter holidays the collected funds were allocated for families in need.

As a result of the poll, President Dalia Gryabauskaite was in the second place, while basketball player Jonas Valanciunas was third. Basketball coach Jonas Kazlauskas was fourth and director Dalia Ibelhauptaite was fifth.