Military planes roared and helicopters clattered over Lithuania's capital Wednesday as former stunt pilot Rolandas Paksas became the country's third president

Military planes roared and helicopters clattered over Lithuania's capital Wednesday as former stunt pilot Rolandas Paksas became the country's third president since 1991. Paksas said he would continue his predecessor's pro-West stance that saw the Baltic state gain invitations to the European Union and the NATO . "Together with other allies we will protect the security of Europe and the world," Paksas told some 600 dignitaries, including Adamkus, during his inaugural speech at parliament. "Safe, wealthy, influential and responsible: this is my vision of Lithuania." Paksas urged the country's 2.7 million eligible voters to give their approval to EU membership in a referendum set for May 11. Lithuania was invited to join the expanding 15-nation bloc in December. He also affirmed Lithuania's aim to join NATO next year.