Honourable members of the Chapter of Orders!
Dear attendees!
Distinguished recipients of the highest state awards!
Today, we are gathered at the Riga Castle on the 34th anniversary of the restoration of independence of the Republic of Latvia. We have gathered to not only celebrate this festive occasion together but also to express our gratitude to all those, who today will be honoured with the highest awards of our country – the Order of Three Stars, the Order of Viesturs and the Cross of Recognition.
In truth, this is a momentous occasion, as it marks the centenary of the Order of the Three Stars and the 30th anniversary of its restoration. Furthermore, we are commemorating the 20th anniversary of the restoration of the Order of Viesturs and the Cross of Recognition. Over the years, these state honours have been bestowed upon representatives from a diverse range of backgrounds and professions. These are exceptional people, who have gone above and beyond the call of duty, both in their primary occupation and in public service, as well as in their efforts to help others. Today, the recipients of the orders will join their ranks.
The nominations were made by people who know you well. By people who hold you in the highest regard. It was far from an easy task for the Chapter of the Orders to determine which individual was the most deserving of this esteemed recognition. When examining all of the nominees for the state awards, we saw kind portrayals and recollections of their acts of service.
I would like to express my gratitude to all of you for your professional contributions and service. You hail from various regions of Latvia. You represent a diverse range of professions, including members of the armed forces, police officers, firefighters, border guards, members of the judiciary, educators, and cultural workers. You also represent non-governmental organizations. Every one of you has already made a significant contribution to Latvia. I am confident that tomorrow, you will continue to contribute even more.
However, these awards are not solely for you. It is beyond doubt that each of you has been helped by your families, relatives, your friends and colleagues. We are immensely grateful to them, because we know the saying – if you want to go far, go together!
After this ceremony, we will have the opportunity to meet and talk. However, I would like to take this moment to extend my congratulations to all of you on the 34th anniversary of the restoration of our country's independence. I wish you strength and perseverance to continue your daily efforts to advance and safeguard our country.