‘I think it is very important for Latvian civic society to show its solidarity: when we fought for democracy and national independence thirty years ago, such solidarity was crucial for us, as well. We needed every such manifestation of solidarity. In a way, given our past experience, we as a mature nation have to show solidarity to our neighbours who are defending their freedom and democracy. Organisers of the protest demonstrated our solidarity. Thank you for that! Turmoil in Belarus is not over yet. Hopefully, all tensions will be diffused, and Belarus will be able to continue developing as an independent and democratic state, and we will be able to enjoy continued friendship with our neighbour, Belarus,’ said President Levits following the meeting.
Egils Levits also informed about his consultations with other regional heads of state and emphasised that ‘today, we, the presidents of Latvia, Lithuania and Poland, agreed to release a joint statement on situation in our neighbouring country because Belarus is a country that borders with our three countries, members of the European Union’. According to President Levits, statement will demand Belarusian government to ‘de-escalate the current situation and stop all forms of violence. Secondly, ensure all human rights, including freedom of assembly and freedom of expression. Thirdly, restore dialogue with Belarusian society’. ‘Dialogue is indispensable for democratic expression of Belarusian people and their efforts to build their own state. We as members of the European Union are open to positive cooperation with Belarusian people, with free Belarus. We all want to see democracy and freedom flourish in Belarus,’ stressed Egils Levits.
