During the conversation, which took place within the framework of the Munich Security Conference, the officials discussed the Baltic-US strategic cooperation on security and defence, implementation of the decisions taken at the NATO Summit in Warsaw, growing defence spending in the Baltic States, and cooperation in the combating against global terrorism.
“The issues of national security and defence are prioritised in Latvia. While increasing the government funding for national defence, it will reach 2% of GDP in line with the commitments to the NATO next year,” said Raimonds Vējonis during the meeting.
The President of Latvia confirmed that Latvia would provide all the necessary for hosting the NATO forces in the implementation of the decision taken at the Alliance Summit in Warsaw on reinforcement of the allied presence in the Baltic States and Poland.
“We are grateful for the readiness of the United States to deepen cooperation with the Baltic States in terms of more general security, including protection of land, air, and maritime space, border security, cyber security, energy security, and resilience against various threats and strengthening the readiness of our institutions for a coordinated and effective action in those areas mentioned before at the national and regional level,” stated President of Latvia Raimonds Vējonis.
The head of state pointed out that the commitment of Latvia to contribute to the global fight against terrorism by providing humanitarian assistance and training the security forces in Iraq and Afghanistan was intrinsic as well.
US Vice President Michael Pence confirmed that the US strongly supported the NATO and their support for the Alliance would be clear and steadfast.
“We share common values like freedom, democracy, the rule of law, and justice. We cannot imagine a better ally than the Baltic States,” stated Mike Pence.
The US Vice President appreciated that all the Baltic States had either already increased or pledged to increase their defence spending up to 2% of gross domestic product in the nearest future.
Mike Pence also confirmed the opinion of the new US administration that Russia should meet its international commitments and respect the Minsk agreements.