On 24 April, President Edgars Rinkēvičs met with the new Minister of Foreign Affairs Baiba Braže to discuss the work priorities set by the minister, the most pressing foreign policy issues, including those on the agenda of the European Union (EU), and NATO, as well as the strengthening of transatlantic ties. During the meeting, the President of Latvia extended his congratulations to the Minister of Foreign Affairs on her assumption of the post and expressed his support for the work priorities set by B. Braže.
The President of Latvia underscored the need to strengthen ties with transatlantic partners. "One of the pivotal foreign policy objectives is to strengthen relations with transatlantic partners. This is of paramount importance for the security of Latvia, the eastern flank of NATO, and Ukraine. It is also critical in the context of preparation for the forthcoming NATO Summit in Washington," noted E. Rinkēvičs.
During the meeting, the President and the Minister of Foreign Affairs reaffirmed their unwavering support for Ukraine until its victory. "Latvia will continue to provide all means of support to Ukraine in its fight against Russian aggression, including military support, which is especially important at this moment. We must also continue to work on the implementation of the strongest and most effective possible sanctions against Russia," said E. Rinkēvičs.
The President and the Minister of Foreign Affairs also discussed Latvia's campaign for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations (UN) Security Council for the 2026-2027 term, which the President of Latvia inaugurated in New York, USA, on 9 November 2023. E. Rinkēvičs and B. Braže agreed that Latvia's candidacy demonstrates the country's readiness to assume additional responsibilities and contribute to the strengthening of global security.
The President of Latvia emphasised the importance of coordination on foreign policy matters, which is essential in the present geopolitical context.
