In these 25 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations, Latvia and Slovakia have become reliable friends and partners in various organisations.
Our countries and nations have broad and diverse cooperation as well as a shared understanding of European values and international challenges. Latvia and Slovakia are active members of the European Union and NATO, and our relations continue to evolve with the common goal of building a united, secure, and economically developed Europe.
We will continue to strengthen the solidarity of Europe. We are advocating a united Europe which we do not divide into North and South or East and West. We are advocating a Europe where we undertake collective responsibility and agree on action to overcome our common challenges. Therefore, we highly appreciate Slovakia’s participation in enhanced forward presence of NATO in Latvia. It is an important contribution to the security of both Latvia, our region, and the entire Alliance.
It is essential to note the diverse cultural cooperation between Latvia and Slovakia, which is especially active in this historically significant occasion for our countries. I would like to mention that the Latvian National Symphony Orchestra performed at the prestigious Bratislava Music Festival in October this year. This is another proof of how close our cultural cooperation is.
Direct airBaltic flights between Riga and Poprad are also facilitating the economic and tourism cooperation between our countries. I am pleased that Poprad is the birthplace of President of the Slovak Republic Mr Andrej Kiska. Undoubtedly, such flights are proof of the importance of connecting not only capitals but also smaller cities and towns. Building a people-to-people relationship is crucial, as they also shape bilateral relations between countries.
I am convinced that the cooperation and friendly relations between Latvia and Slovakia will only strengthen, and we will find new opportunities in various fields for developing successful cooperation in the coming years!
