From 14 to 15 May, President Edgars Rinkēvičs paid an official visit to Rome and met with the President of the Republic of Italy Sergio Mattarella, President of the Italian Senate Ignazio La Russa, and President of the Chamber of Deputies Lorenzo Fontana. During the meeting, the officials discussed bilateral relations, regional security, and support for Ukraine, as well as topical issues on the European Union (EU) agenda.
During the meeting with the President of the Italian Republic, President Rinkēvičs welcomed the excellent bilateral relations between Latvia and Italy and underscored Italy's contribution to strengthening the security of the Baltic states. "I am very pleased with the close political, economic and especially cultural ties between Latvia and Italy. I greatly appreciate Italy's contribution to strengthening the security of the Baltic region, through its participation in NATO’s Enhanced Forward Presence and NATO Baltic Air Policing", said E. Rinkēvičs. The President of Latvia also highlighted Latvia's interest in advancing economic collaboration with Italy, with a particular focus on the development of innovation, energy and transport infrastructure projects.
The President and Italian officials expressed their united support for Ukraine in its fight against Russian aggression. The President expressed his gratitude for Italy’s unwavering support for Ukraine, especially as the country holding the G7 Presidency. The parties concurred on the need to continue to provide support to Ukraine in its fight against the aggressor. The President also called on the EU to begin accession negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova as soon as possible this year.
During his official visit, the President of Latvia met with representatives of Italian businesses and representatives of universities to promote cooperation in stimulating investment and research. The President also met with the Latvian diaspora residing in Italy.
During the visit, President Rinkēvičs gave interviews to several major Italian media outlets, including Corriere della Sera and RAI 24.
