On 24 April, President Edgars Rinkēvičs participated in and delivered an address at the flag presentation ceremony of the Naval Forces Technical Support Centre of the National Armed Forces, held at the “Daugavgrīva” military base in Riga.
"I would like to extend my warmest congratulations on this special day – to the professional service members, the staff, and all those who, day in and day out, ensure that your unit’s motto ‘Aspiration – Responsibility – Dedication’ is upheld. Upheld with professionalism and with integrity.
I wish you to carry this flag with pride and to hold it high. And, if necessary, to defend our Latvia with it in your hands. That is the solemn vow your commander has just made on your behalf. May this flag stand as a symbol of your unit’s team spirit, your capacity for mutual cooperation, and each of your personal aspirations for growth and improvement. May it also represent your responsibility to our country and your commitment to fulfilling your duties with honour, responsibility, and professionalism.
I wish to acknowledge your unique contribution specifically within the Naval Forces. It is no coincidence that your emblem features a cogwheel – nothing can truly function without it. Without technical support, no system can operate, and the Naval Forces cannot function effectively. This is why a high level of precision and reliability is essential, and you demonstrate this daily through your support for our own vessels and watercraft, performing repairs, maintenance and technical oversight, as well as providing routine support to the ships of our allies.
We are well aware that the current situation, both at our national borders and in the Baltic Sea, is far from simple. We are witnessing a growing number of provocations, and we must be prepared to respond. Therefore, it is our shared responsibility – yours especially – to strengthen our capabilities through close cooperation with our allies, to respond effectively to various types of incidents, including those targeting underwater infrastructure, and to work diligently to ensure that we, our society can feel safe each and every day,” emphasized President Rinkēvičs.
