During the conversation with H.E. Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Finland Mrs Marja Riitta Korpivaara, the President of Latvia emphasised the close and constructive bilateral relations between the two countries as well as excellent cooperation in the context of the European Union (EU) and regional collaboration. Both countries find cooperation in defence as well as in reducing hybrid threats substantial, where both countries have accumulated significant international expertise. Finland is a vital foreign trade partner. Therefore, the development of economic cooperation is supported in the future by attracting new Finnish investments as well. Raimonds Vējonis also noted close cultural ties and people-to-people contacts, which have especially consolidated during the celebrations to mark a centenary of statehood of both countries.
During the meeting with H.E. Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Poland Ms Monika Michaliszyn, the President of Latvia appreciated the excellent bilateral relations and active bilateral dialogue between the two countries. The official visit of President of Poland Andrzej Duda to Latvia this June was also noted very positively. Latvia appreciates Poland’s contribution to the security of Latvia, in particular, its participation in the NATO Battle Group located in Latvia. Both countries consider that close cooperation in the development of regional transport and energy infrastructure is essential.
During a conversation with H.E. Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Kingdom of Norway Mr Kristian Ødegaard, the President of Latvia extended gratitude for the historically close and friendly relations between the two countries, including close cooperation in defence, economics, and culture. Latvia welcomes the exchange of high-level visits, for example, the official visit of the Crown Prince and Crown Princess of Norway to Latvia in April this year. The opportunities provided by the European Economic Area and the Norwegian Financial Mechanism for the development of bilateral relations between Latvia and Norway are significant. It is important to note that the commitment undertaken in previous periods to promote security, sustainability, and prosperity, mitigate effects of climate change and reduce social and economic inequality will be continued in the next programming period (2014-2021) as well. Latvia also appreciates Norway’s support for the Baltic Centre for Media Excellence.
While meeting with H.E. Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Slovakia Mr Ladislav Babčan, the President thanked Slovakia for joining the NATO Battle Group in Latvia and for the decision to second an expert to the NATO StratCom Centre of Excellence in Latvia. Successful co-operation in culture is essential for Latvia. Continuation of cooperation in tourism and exports of metalworking, electronics, food industry, and pharmaceuticals is becoming increasingly important. Latvia is also interested in developing joint projects in bioeconomy, biomedicine, smart technologies, smart energy, and ICT.
