The Latvian government and society highly value the visit of European Commission (EC) President Ursula von der Leyen to Latvia, seeing it as a demonstration of solidarity, Prime Minister Evika Siliņa (New Unity) emphasized at a press conference today.
“This is a show of solidarity with all of Latvia,” said Siliņa, expressing gratitude to von der Leyen for her consistent and unequivocal support for the country.
The Prime Minister noted that there are no signs suggesting Russia wants to end its war in Ukraine. “Unfortunately, from our own history we know that Moscow only understands force,” Siliņa said. That is why Latvia continues to strengthen its resilience and capabilities while working to weaken Russia, she underlined, stressing again that Latvia’s external borders are not only those of the country, but also of the European Union and NATO.
Latvia will also continue developing its military industry. As an example of successful EU co-financing, Siliņa highlighted the drone manufacturing facility Origin Robotics in Mārupe municipality, which she and von der Leyen visited today.
Siliņa reaffirmed that Latvia still advocates for further sanctions against Russia and Belarus,
stressing that Ukraine belongs in the EU. She underscored that under von der Leyen’s leadership, the European Commission has been a reliable partner both for Ukraine and for Latvia.
The Prime Minister also pointed out that Russia’s war has affected Latvia’s economy, especially in the eastern regions, as investors are cautious about committing funds there. “That is why I know Ursula has always stood for strengthening Europe’s competitiveness, and we strongly support her in this, because a stronger Europe means a stronger Latvia,” Siliņa said.
She emphasized that Latvia has already allocated several hundred million euros to strengthen its eastern border regions and improve security. In addition, the government has approved an economic development plan for the eastern frontier, allocating over 640 million euros for the coming years.
“But it is important that these efforts are not only national and that they are duly recognized at the EU level,”
Siliņa noted.
She added that she had agreed with von der Leyen that in the upcoming EU multiannual budget negotiations, this issue will certainly need to be discussed.
“We agreed to work toward securing dedicated financial support for Latvia’s eastern regions,” said Siliņa, welcoming the European Commission’s understanding of the matter.
As reported, von der Leyen arrived in Latvia on Friday. Later, she will also visit Finland, Estonia, Poland, Lithuania, Bulgaria, and Romania.
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