Madam Speaker of the Saeima!
Mr. President of the Constitutional Court!
Mr Levits!
Mr Vējonis!
Mr Zatlers!
Dear members of the 4th of May Declaration Club!
Dear people of Latvia from Balvi, Kuldīga, Jēkabpils, and Gulbene!
Ladies and gentlemen!
Dear guests!
Just like on May 4, 1990, today is a warm and sunny day. On such a beautiful spring day – everything blossoms and springs to life. It was on this day, that our freedom was reborn.
I am glad that today we have among us the people who have given us this joyous occasion. These are the people who 34 years ago demonstrated courage and voted IN FAVOUR. IN FAVOUR of the restoration of the Independence of the Republic of Latvia. On that day, we reclaimed what has always been rightfully ours – our independence.
On that day, all of Latvia was sitting by the radio and counting votes. It was a sight to behold, an event like no other. We were ready for freedom then, and the world was ready for it.
But just because we truly want something, it does not mean that the whole world will join hands to make it happen. We have to take our own risks, fight our own battles, and put in all of the work ourselves. Freedom was, and continues to be, a product of courage.
At that time, we were united in our pursuit of liberty. But today we are united in our freedom to argue with each other and to disagree. On the small things. Because we already agree on the most important thing of all – that independence is a value we will cherish and fight for.
Dear guests!
Freedom is not a monument that will stand forever on its own. Our freedom is the Baltic Way. Our freedom is 4 May 1990. Our freedom is joining the European Union and NATO 20 years ago. Our freedom now is the Baltic states’ resolute support for Ukraine. That is today's Baltic Way.
Our freedom is our responsibility. Our freedom is in our hands, our hearts, and our minds, where it is safeguarded. As long as we care, as long as our hearts burn, no hatred or lust for power can drown us.
Dear friends!
I have visited many towns and municipalities across Latvia. I have met some truly talented, driven, and selfless people.
You are the ones who are unafraid to act. And each of you has given your best effort – as entrepreneurs in the regions, medics in hospitals, workers in social care institutions, and excellent teachers in Latvia's schools. Our creative people devote their lives, talents, and intellect to Latvian culture. Our country rests on your shoulders. Nothing demonstrates love for Latvia, for your motherland, like hard work. That is true dedication to your country, to your land and to your people. Thank you all for that!
But today is a day of celebration! Therefore, with a small musical tribute, I would like to thank you all for your contributions to Latvia, and wish you all a wonderful 4th of May celebration in the Ceremonial Hall of the Riga Castle. This does not mean that I plan to sing or play music myself. Ilona Bagele and the jazz orchestra "Mirāža" will do that for me. Let us welcome them with a round of applause!
