The President of Latvia: Latvia’s accession to NATO fifteen years ago was the most significant event after the restoration of independence

“Latvia’s accession to NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization) fifteen years ago was the most significant event after the restoration of independence. Today we are stronger than ever. Along with our National Armed Forces, our Allies, NATO Member States, stand for the security of our country,” emphasises President of Latvia Raimonds Vējonis.

The President of Latvia notes that in the 21st century the world faces complicated threats and challenges. We can only eliminate those threats and overcome the challenges together and united by strengthening NATO and complementing NATO with the defence initiatives of the European Union. It is equally important to continue increasing the capacity of Member States within NATO to face not only traditional but also hybrid threats.

To mark 15 years since Latvia’s accession to NATO, a ceremonial change of the guards of honour was held at the Riga Castle in the morning on Friday, 29 March 2019, and the NATO flag was raised solemnly in the Tower of the Holy Spirit of Riga Castle at 8 a.m.

Lieutenant Colonel Sandris Gaugers, Commander of the Land Forces Mechanised Infantry Brigade, Lieutenant Colonel Philippe Sauvé, Commanding Officer of the NATO Enhanced Forward Presence Battle Group Latvia, and representatives of NATO Enhanced Forward Presence Battle Group Latvia from Albania, Czech Republic, Italy, Canada, Poland, Slovakia, Slovenia, and Spain, as well as US Military Attaché to Latvia participated in the events.