Madam Speaker of the Saeima!
Madam Prime Minister!
Honourable Minister of Defence!
Commander of the Latvian Armed Forces!
Parade participants! All those present!
For 106 years, Latvia has been our country. I am confident that for each of us present today, our Latvia is near and dear.
I am confident that our forefathers, who made the ultimate sacrifice for Latvia, would be filled with joy watching our celebrations. The red-white-red flag flying proudly in Latvia. A free, independent, and strong Latvia. Our security is our responsibility – this is not just a slogan.
Soldiers, members of the National Guard, members of the Youth Guard!
Tomorrow marks 1000 days since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Ukraine is fighting. We must continue to help. We must learn from Ukraine. Let us do it with integrity. Let us do it now! Because we must be ready to defend our country today and tomorrow. Always!
You have been entrusted with a great responsibility. Especially to the Latvian people and country. In peacetime, we have the opportunity to learn and to develop. To admit our mistakes. To correct them. To learn from our positive and negative experiences. To prepare for every scenario. To train with our NATO allies. How to keep our country and our people safe. How to resist the enemy.
Allied soldiers!
Your presence in Latvia has grown from a battle group to a brigade. I would like to extend my sincere gratitude for your invaluable contribution!
A secure Latvia means a secure Europe and a strong NATO. Our national security is not just a matter for our own country – it is an integral part of the security and stability of the entire Alliance.
Border guards!
The threats and challenges at our eastern border require vigilance and preparedness. Therefore, we cannot relax, neither in training nor in duty. It is our responsibility to strengthen our country's external and internal security. We must be ready to respond to the unexpected and unpredictable situations that may arise.
Rescue workers, firefighters, police officers!
We all have something to protect. And together – we must protect our country's freedom, independence, and land. But especially the people of Latvia. And we do. Because together we are a force.
Thank you to every soldier, national guardsman, policeman, rescue worker, border guard, and firefighter who has made Latvia stronger and safer this year. Thank you to the youth guards and the soldiers of the National Defence Service for your patriotism and strength.
Thank you to everyone who continues to work today, both here in Riga and across Latvia, so that we can celebrate without worrying about our security.
Our strength is Latvia’s strength.
God, bless Latvia!
