In the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), Latvia will continue to provide maximum support to Ukraine, emphasized President of Latvia Edgars Rinkēvičs during a meeting with Prime Minister Evika Siliņa (New Unity) on Wednesday at the Jūrmala residence.
The President expressed gratitude to diplomats and everyone involved in Latvia’s UNSC candidacy process, stressing that election to the Council is not the end, but rather the beginning of a journey. Rinkēvičs highlighted that starting from the 1st of January, Latvia will work in this format alongside 14 other countries.
He noted that much has been said about the role and importance of the UNSC, and although the Council has been criticized for its inefficiency in crisis resolution, it remains the only universal organization whose decisions are legally binding on member states.
According to the President, it is important that, even when discussions don’t always yield immediate results, the voices of countries defending a rules-based international order are heard clearly, countering the narratives of authoritarian regimes. He emphasized that such countries must vote together in the UNSC, either to advance or block specific proposals based on shared democratic values.
Rinkēvičs reiterated that the priorities outlined by the Latvian government years ago—defending international law, promoting sustainable development, and countering Russian propaganda—will remain the focus for Latvia’s diplomats and political leaders within the Council. He emphasized that these efforts will continue in cooperation with other European and like-minded countries.
The President also noted that Latvia will build upon the experience of Estonia and Lithuania, which have previously served as non-permanent members of the UNSC.
He welcomed the fact that there has consistently been a Northern Baltic country represented on the Council—currently it is Denmark. Rinkēvičs commended the opportunity for Latvia to work on initiatives that support and aid Ukraine. He mentioned that it is no secret that Ukraine’s foreign minister frequently addresses the UNSC, as do ministers from other like-minded nations.
“Let us not forget that we will need to regularly counter Russia’s lies about history and human rights. The Security Council provides a platform to engage with all countries of the world. Latvia can use this platform to share our message globally,” said the President.
He added that the next two years in the UNSC will not be solely about diplomatic work—it is also an opportunity to support and assist Latvian businesses in Africa, Latin America, and Asia. Often during the campaign, businesspeople accompanied diplomats and ministers during high-level meetings.
“We have welcomed and will continue to host leaders from other countries. We will use this opportunity not only to address large and idealistic issues but also to help Latvia grow and gain international recognition, which brings real benefits around the world,” Rinkēvičs concluded.
On Tuesday, the United Nations General Assembly elected Latvia to the Security Council. Latvia received 178 out of 188 votes, with ten countries abstaining.