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News  /  Newsletters  /  Special Edition of "Current Latvia"
  

Current Latvia

THEME IN FOCUS: NATO

No. 30, 19 December 2002

EVENTS

  • NATO adopts an historic decision
  • President George W. Bush in Vilnius: Baltic States belong to NATO
  • First round of talks on Latvia's accession to NATO concludes
  • Second round of NATO-Latvia accession negotiations concludes
  • Baltic Defence Ministers hold their first meeting after NATO Prague Summit
  • International conference on post-Prague agenda held in Riga
  • Latvia's Foreign Minister congratulates winner of competition "A Safer World"
  • NATO Handbook available in secondary schools all over Latvia

STATEMENTS

  • Announcement on Enlargement by NATO Secretary General, Lord Robertson, Meeting of the North Atlantic Council at the level of Heads of State and Government, Prague, 21 November 2002
  • Statement by the Heads of State and Government of Albania, Bulgaria, Croatia, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Macedonia, Romania, Slovakia and Slovenia on the occasion of NATO Summit in Prague, 21 November 2002
  • Speech of the President of the Republic of Latvia, Vaira Vike-Freiberga at the NATO Summit in Prague during the meeting of NAC and the seven invited states, 21 November 2002
  • President Vaira Vike-Freiberga's Commentary on the Prague announcement by NATO member states on beginning negotiations with Latvia and six other states to join the NATO Alliance, Prague, 21 November 2002
  • Speech of the President of the Republic of Latvia, Vaira Vike-Freiberga at the EAPC Summit, Prague Congress Centre, 22 November 2002
  • Remarks by the President of the United States, George W. Bush to the Citizens of Vilnius, Vilnius, Lithuania, 23 November 2002 (extracts)
  • Opening address by the President of the Republic of Latvia, Vaira Vike-Freiberga at the LATO 2nd International Conference "Post Prague Agenda: Prospects for cooperation in Eastern and Northern Europe", Riga, 6 December 2002

DOCUMENTS

  • The official invitation letter to join NATO received by the Latvian Minister of Foreign Affairs Sandra Kalniete on 21 November 2002
  • The response letter of Latvian Foreign Minister Sandra Kalniete on the matter of accession talks, addressed to NATO Secretary General Lord Robertson on 25 November 2002
  • Prague Summit Declaration Issued by the Heads of State and Government participating in the meeting of the North Atlantic Council in Prague on 21 November 2002 (extracts)
  • Chairman's Summary of the Meeting of the Euro-Atlantic Partnership Council at Summit Level, Prague, 22 November 2002
  • Joint Communiqué of the Ministerial Committee, Meeting of the Ministers of Defence of the Baltic States, Riga, 10 December 2002 (extracts)

FOR MORE INFORMATION

  • Contact information
  • Useful links

EVENTS

NATO adopts an historic decision

Today in Prague the Heads of State and Government of NATO took a truly historic decision to invite seven candidate countries - Bulgaria, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Slovakia, Slovenia and Romania - to join the Alliance. This decision changes fundamentally Latvia's strategic situation. In the words of the US President George W. Bush, these countries "will never again stand alone against a threat of aggression". From today on, Latvia is linked to NATO members with ties of allied relationship.

The Prague Summit decisions are a watershed for Latvia's strive for security. The invitation to join means a recognition by our Western allies of the maturity of Latvia's state. It is a recognition of Latvia's full-fledged role in the transatlantic community of nations. Finally, NATO's decision truly leaves behind historic injustices and legacy of the Cold War.

Latvia favours an Alliance that is capable of deterring or preventing threats to its members. Latvia is interested in a strong Alliance. Therefore, Latvia is ready to provide its contribution to implementation of NATO objectives and to the development of NATO's military capacities. After the Prague Summit Latvia will continue to strengthen its ability to uphold Alliance's policies and operations and continue to pursue defence development and reforms.

Process of preparing for membership has a constructive and stabilizing effect.

Latvia supports the continuation of NATO's open door policy. The Vilnius 10 countries have co-operated and supported each other towards the shared objective of NATO membership. Latvia congratulates Bulgaria, Estonia, Lithuania, Slovakia, Slovenia and Romania on their invitation to join NATO. Latvia will continue to co-operate with Croatia, Macedonia and Albania, so that each of them may become fully prepared for Alliance membership.

Latvia supports the active outreach policy of the Alliance towards its neighbouring regions. Constructive relations between NATO and Russia have a positive effect on the security climate in Europe and Latvia promotes that. NATO co-operation with Ukraine, Georgia and other countries in the Caucasus and Central Asia furthers the reform process in these countries.

Latvia is determined to be a good and responsible ally.

MFA (21.11.2002)

 

President George W. Bush in Vilnius: Baltic States belong to NATO

The President of Latvia participated at the meeting of the Presidents of Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania and the United States in Vilnius on 23 November 2002. During the meeting Vaira Vike-Freiberga thanked George W. Bush for his visit to the Baltic States, saying it was a high evaluation of the three countries. President Vike-Freiberga stressed the role of the USA in the Baltic States' recovery of independence and in the strengthening of their democracy, and affirmed that Latvia and the other Baltic States are reliable and close partners of the USA. The President of Latvia highly appreciated the role of the USA in international politics and stressed that Latvia supports US policy in relation to Russia and does not want the processes of NATO and EU enlargement to create any lines of division in the world.

In his address to the Presidents of the Baltic States, George W. Bush said that with his visit to Lithuania he was congratulating and expressing support to all three Baltic States. He said that the three nations had experienced difficult times and totalitarianism, and best understood the importance of freedom. President Bush stressed that these days were historic for the Baltic nations and that not their size, but the character of their people was important. He confirmed that the USA wants to see the Baltic States in NATO and that they belong to the Alliance. George W. Bush also confirmed that the US Administration would do its best to finish the ratification process in relation to the Baltic States' NATO membership as soon as possible.

"You're joining the strong and growing family of NATO. Our Alliance has made a solemn pledge of protection, and anyone who would choose Lithuania as an enemy has also made an enemy of the United States of America. In the face of aggression, the brave people of Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia will never again stand alone," emphasised the President of the United States during his visit to Vilnius.

President's Press Service http://www.president.lv (23.11.2002)

 

First round of talks on Latvia's accession to NATO concludes

On 4 December 2002 the first round of negotiations on Latvia's accession to NATO was held at NATO headquarters in Brussels. The Latvian delegation, approved by the Cabinet of Ministers, was headed by the State Secretary of the Foreign Ministry, Maris Riekstins. State Secretary of the Ministry of Defence Edgars Rinkevics headed discussions on defence issues, while NATO Assistant Secretary General for Political Affairs Günther Altenburg chaired the NATO delegation to the talks.

The aim of the first round of talks was to ascertain Latvia's readiness to undertake its commitments under the North Atlantic Treaty and support NATO policy in the promotion of the basic principles of democracy, strengthening peace and security in the Euro-Atlantic region, co-operation with partner countries and pursuit of the Alliance's open door policy.

At the beginning of the talks, State Secretary Maris Riekstins confirmed that the foreign policy priorities of the Latvian government in relation to the accession to NATO and the European Union remain consistent. Riekstins also stated the short-term and long-term objectives of the Latvian government.

Referring to political issues, the Latvian delegation voiced readiness to join the collective defence system and contribute to NATO efforts to strengthen peace and security. Latvia is determined to involve itself constructively in the work of NATO and to this end secure the necessary representation and resources.

In the field of defence, Latvia undertakes to participate in NATO collective defence and peacekeeping operations and crisis management missions. Upon joining the Alliance, Latvia must be ready to participate in defence and other planning processes, as well as to send qualified representatives to work in NATO military structures.

MFA (04.12.2002)

MFA, press release of 26 November 2002 "Foreign Ministry State Secretary Maris Riekstins to lead Latvian delegation in negotiations with NATO": http://www.am.gov.lv/en/?id=2797
MFA, press release of 27 November 2002 "Heads of Latvia's delegation for negotiations on NATO accession hold press conference": http://www.am.gov.lv/en/?id=2800

 

Second round of NATO-Latvia accession negotiations concludes

On 11 December 2002 the second round of negotiations between Latvia and NATO on Latvia's accession to the Alliance took place at NATO Headquarters in Brussels. The Latvian delegation, approved by the Cabinet of Ministers, was headed by State Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Maris Riekstins. Discussions on defence issues were led by State Secretary of the Ministry of Defence Edgars Rinkevics, on financial issues by Undersecretary of State of the Ministry of Finance Inguna Sudraba, and on security issues by Deputy Director of the Constitution Protection Bureau Uldis Dzenitis. The NATO delegation to the talks was chaired by NATO Assistant Secretary General for Political Affairs Günther Altenburg.

The aim of the second round of negotiations was to ascertain Latvia's readiness to undertake the commitments set out in the North Atlantic Treaty on NATO co-financed activities and programmes, and to involve its experts in NATO's common civilian and military structures. Issues related to the protection of classified information were given special attention. Latvia expressed its readiness to undertake the necessary organisational measures to guarantee protection of NATO's classified information. Discussions on the legal aspects of Latvia's accession to the Alliance covered the procedure for accession to international agreements within the NATO framework, including the North Atlantic Treaty.

In addition to the afternoon's plenary session, a meeting of NATO and Latvian defence planning experts was held in the morning on the enhancement of the structure of armed forces, along with a meeting with NATO security experts.

Accession negotiations will continue with the elaboration of a reform plan, which the Latvian delegation will discuss with the Senior Officials Committee of the 19 NATO member states on 4 February 2003.

MFA (11.12.2002)

 

Baltic Defence Ministers hold their first meeting after NATO Prague Summit

On 10 December 2002 in Riga, the Ministers of Defence of Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia Girts Valdis Kristovskis, Linas Linkevicius and Sven Mikser met for their first regular meeting after the NATO Summit in Prague. At the meeting in Riga, the Ministers of Defence of the Baltic States agreed on various aspects of further development of Baltic military co-operation and signed a Plan of Co-operation between the Ministries of Defence and the Defence Forces of the Republic of Estonia, the Republic of Latvia and the Republic of Lithuania for the Year 2003.

The Ministers recognised the important role of Baltic defence co-operation in preparing the Baltic States for NATO membership and confirmed the determination of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania to further develop defence co-operation among the three countries in order to enhance their contribution to European security in general and to NATO's missions in particular.

The Baltic defence officials expressed their will to continue close co-operation within the NATO framework and agreed to co-operate and share views during the accession talks with NATO.

The next meeting of the Ministers will take place in Lithuania in March 2003.

Ministry of Defence http://www.mod.gov.lv (10.12.2002)

 

International conference on post-Prague agenda held in Riga

On 6 December 2002 in Riga the President of Latvia, Vaira Vike-Freiberga opened an international conference entitled "Post Prague Agenda: Prospects for cooperation in Eastern and Northern Europe", organised by the Latvian Transatlantic Organisation (LATO) and the Konrad Adenauer Foundation of Germany.

In her opening address, President Vike-Freiberga underscored that Latvia views accession to NATO and the EU as parallel and equally important processes for ensuring security, stability and prosperity in Europe, and welcomed the continuation of NATO's open door policy and its readiness to consider the applications of other aspirant countries.

The international conference in Riga focused on the post-Prague security policy agenda for the countries of Eastern Europe, including the Baltic countries, Russia, Ukraine, Georgia and others. Among the participants at the conference were Latvian Minister of Defence Girts Valdis Kristovskis, Lithuanian Minister of Defence Linas Linkevicius, former Prime Minister of Estonia Mart Laar, former Prime Minister of Sweden Carl Bildt and the President of the US Committee on NATO Bruce Jackson.

President's Press Service http://www.president.lv, LATO http://www.lato.lv

Conference programme: http://www.lato.lv/eng/notikumi/Events2002/KAD%20conferenc_programme.1.lpp.doc

 

Latvia's Foreign Minister congratulates winner of competition "A Safer World"

On 2 December 2002 Latvia's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sandra Kalniete, congratulated Sabine Dreimane of the Secondary School No. 1 of Valka for having won first prize in the international children's (in the 6 to 10 year age group) drawing competition "A Safer World". Ms Kalniete presented Sabine with a diploma signed by NATO's Secretary General Lord Robertson and the awards from the organisers of the competition. After having been photographed with Sabine, the Foreign Minister said that she would be delighted if in a few years, when she again looks at this photograph, she could say that here she appears together with a famous artist.

The young artist's drawing, called "Duet of Sisters," depicts in bright colours two girls - Sabine and her sister - lying in the grass and holding hands. Sabine explained that she thinks of security in terms of family and the people around her.

The "A Safer World" children's drawing competition was held by the organisers to coincide with the NATO Prague Summit. Thirty children's drawings from Latvia, selected from among those submitted in the national round of the competition, were sent to Prague, where Sabine's work was judged to be the best overall in her age group.

MFA (02.12.2002)

MFA, press release of 22 November 2002 "Latvian drawing wins NATO Summit Secretariat Children's Drawing Competition": http://www.am.gov.lv/en/?id=2804

 

NATO Handbook available in secondary schools all over Latvia

On 27 November 2002 the State Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Latvia, Maris Riekstins passed over to the Head of the Education and Examination Centre of the Ministry of Education and Science, Maris Krastins more than 1000 NATO Handbooks in Latvian to make them available for teachers and students in each and every secondary school of Latvia.

The NATO Office of Information and Press has for the first time issued a Latvian-language version of the NATO Handbook, which tells of the history of NATO, NATO's role in the development of the European Security and Defence Identity, participation in peacekeeping operations and arms control. The publication also introduces to NATO's policy and decision-making, the organisation's structure, programmes and activities, financial management and other aspects of NATO.

Over the past months, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Latvia in co-operation with the Ministry of Defence and the non-governmental organisation LATO have paid particular attention to the public information on NATO, thereby offering Latvia's residents the opportunity to acquire detailed information on the North Atlantic Alliance and the rights and obligations of Latvia as a future member state.

MFA (27.11.2002)

NATO Handbook (in Latvian): http://www.nato.int/docu/other/lv/latvian.htm

 

STATEMENTS

Announcement on Enlargement by NATO Secretary General, Lord Robertson, Meeting of the North Atlantic Council at the level of Heads of State and Government, Prague, 21 November 2002

From its inception, NATO has never been an exclusive organisation. From 12 original countries, we enlarged successively to 14, 15, 16 and then, in 1999, to 19.

NATO's door is still open. In 1999, NATO leaders set up a Membership Action Plan to assist countries across Europe to prepare for eventual membership. Aspirant countries have been working hard to modernise and reform their armed forces, and to meet NATO's very high standards on values, the rule of law and robust democratic institutions.

All aspirants have been faced with tough and difficult decisions. It is a reflection of their political determination to join NATO that they have met this challenge.

In June last year, NATO leaders announced their intention to issue further invitations to join the Alliance.

Since then, we have been working to ensure that NATO itself is ready to enlarge. As a result of a comprehensive internal reform process, an organisation designed originally for 12 members will be ready to operate as effectively with over twice that number.

We can therefore say with complete confidence that this round of enlargement will maintain and increase NATO's strength, cohesion and vitality, and that it is not directed against the security interests of any partner state.

You have recently received a comprehensive report on the enlargement process. Today, we decide on further invitations to countries to begin accession talks.

This is a crucially important decision where consensus among Allies has emerged gradually over the last few months. I believe that consensus has now been reached. I therefore put to the Heads of State and Government of NATO that they agree that we invite to accession talks with NATO the following nations: Bulgaria, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Romania, Slovakia and Slovenia. I take it that this is agreed - the Council has so decided.

Having reached this momentous decision, I would now like to give the floor to the members of the NAC at Heads of State and Government.

URL: http://www.nato.int/docu/speech/2002/s021121c.htm

 

Statement by the Heads of State and Government of Albania, Bulgaria, Croatia, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Macedonia, Romania, Slovakia and Slovenia on the occasion of NATO Summit in Prague, Prague, 21 November 2002

1. We, the Heads of State and Government of Albania, Bulgaria, Croatia, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Macedonia, Romania, Slovakia and Slovenia, reaffirm that political solidarity and a commitment to the democratic values will continue to be the foundation of our cooperation with each other and with NATO allies.

2. In the two and a half years since we first met in Vilnius, Lithuania, we have sought to make our own contribution to a Europe that is free and united by the fundamental principles of democracy, free market economy, and human rights. We have also set the goal of acting in solidarity in response to the new threats to the Euro-Atlantic community. To this end, we have joined NATO nations in operations from Kosovo to Kabul and have acted as members of the Alliance in the fight against terrorism.

3. We welcome the decision of the North Atlantic Council to invite Bulgaria, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Romania, Slovakia and Slovenia to begin accession talks with NATO. This decision is a success for all of our countries and a success for democracy. It is also a recognition of the tremendous efforts our countries put into reforms. We believe that Albania, Croatia and Macedonia are an essential part of the Euro-Atlantic community and should be invited to begin accession talks at the earliest opportunity. We are committed to accelerate the process of reform in each of our countries and to work together to support the aspiration of Albania, Croatia and Macedonia for membership in NATO.

4. We are grateful for the support of the NATO Parliamentary Assembly to the Vilnius Group since its formation and trust that it will continue to act as an engine for further NATO enlargement. We welcome the invitation of Lithuania to host in Vilnius, on 22-23 May 2003, a meeting at the level of Parliamentary speakers of our countries, and the intention of Macedonia to host a Vilnius Group Summit in 2004.

5. We reaffirm our support for a strong Alliance at the core of Trans-Atlantic security, capable to adapt to and meet new security challenges. We shall contribute to the fullest extent possible to NATO operations and to the modernization of NATO's defence capabilities. We reaffirm our commitment to continue to play an active role in the war against terrorism and proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. We support the goal of the international community for full disarmament of Iraq as stipulated in the UN Security Council Resolution 1441. In the event of non-compliance with the terms of this resolution, we are prepared to contribute to an international coalition to enforce its provisions and the disarmament of Iraq.

6. The process we began in Vilnius has enhanced mutual trust, solidarity and regional cooperation among our countries and strengthened democracy in Europe. We have accelerated the transformation of our civic societies and learned to work together as allies. We believe that the spirit of solidarity and responsibility has a meaningful role to play in the aftermath of the Prague Summit, in the furtherance of democracy and security in the Euro-Atlantic area. We are ready to assist Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia to succeed in joining the Euro-Atlantic institutions, and we will support the process of democratic reform in Ukraine, Belarus, Moldova and the countries of Caucasus and Central Asia.

URL: http://www.am.gov.lv/en/?id=4475

 

Speech of the President of the Republic of Latvia, Vaira Vike-Freiberga at the NATO Summit in Prague during the meeting of NAC and the seven invited states, 21 November 2002

 

Mr. Secretary General,

Excellencies,

Heads of State and Government,

On behalf of the Republic of Latvia and its people I thank all the Heads of State and Government of the NATO member countries for the courage to take the decision that they announced today. For us in Latvia it comes as a sign of international justice. It will put an end once and for all to the last vestiges of the Second World War, to the last sequels of what started with the Molotov-Ribbentrop pact in 1939, to the consequences of the decisions taken in Teheran and Yalta.

Latvia lost its independence for a very long time, and it knows the meaning both of liberty and the loss of it. Latvia knows the meaning of security and the loss of it. And this is why being invited in an Alliance that will ensure our security is a momentous moment that will be writ large in the history of our nation.

We would like to congratulate you on the wisdom of your decision. You have taken the plunge, you have put your faith in us, and you have been guiding us and helping us along the path of reform that we have undertaken. All of you sitting around this table in one way or another have pushed us, prodded us, encouraged us. You have stood by our side as we have tried to recover from half a century of totalitarian rule, from half a century of oppression. We come from a very long way and we would like to thank you for having been at our side, and having been ready to shoulder us and to encourage us in all the difficult steps that we have taken so far, and the very difficult steps that still lie ahead of us. Because, of course, the road is but half-done and we still have the process of ratification ahead of us. We thank you for your trust and we would like to assure you that it has been well placed. We are committed to the same ideals that you are. We would like to enjoy the same liberties and freedoms that you have enjoyed for so long and that we have so recently recovered. We are ready to work as hard as ever we have to attain the same standards, the same levels, and to make our full contribution. And I think that this NATO Summit can be summarised in one word - Hope. Hope for a better future, both for those nations - all seven of us - who have received this historic invitation today, but Hope also for those nations on whom the door has not been closed, as it was not on us, those who still stand ready, and I think, will be encouraged by our progress, to continue their striving and their efforts, because they see that it can lead to the result that we all hope for.

We in Latvia would like to build our future on the rock of political certainty, not on the shifting sands of indecision. We do not want to be in some sort of grey zone of political uncertainty, we would like to enjoy the full sunshine of the liberties and the rights that NATO has been defending so long. We do not want to be left out in the outer darkness, and we would not wish this to happen to any other nation who has expressed the desire to join those nations that hold the same values, that follow the same ideals, and that are ready for the same efforts and the same strivings. Our people have been tested in the fires of history, they have been tempered in the furnaces of suffering and injustice. They know the meaning and the value of liberty. They know that it is worth every effort to support it, to maintain it, to stand for it and to fight for it. We make a solemn pledge and commitment here today, on this historic and solemn occasion, that we will strive to our utmost to do our part to contribute not just to the strength of the Alliance but to do whatever needs to be done to create a world where justice and liberty are available to all.

URL: http://www.am.gov.lv/en/?id=3506

 

President Vaira Vike-Freiberga's Commentary on the Prague announcement by NATO member states on beginning negotiations with Latvia and six other states to join the NATO Alliance, Prague, 21 November 2002

I congratulate the whole Latvian nation! Today is for us an historic day, the day of an historic announcement - we have been officially invited to become a member state of the NATO Alliance.

Ladies and Gentlemen, this for us is a truly historic and happy day. For Latvia, nothing will be as before. No longer will we be prey to the threats we have so often had to endure, and whose consequences we have felt for so long. This is a turning point not only for us, but also for our Lithuanian and Estonian neighbours, as well as for the rest of the candidate countries. All seven of us are now pushing outward the zone of peace, stability and security in Europe, which for decades was safeguarded by the other NATO member states. We are joining those Central European countries which were formerly members of the Warsaw Pact and which have been our fervent and firm supporters. And for this we should extend particular thanks to the President of the Czech Republic Vaclav Havel, who has so much highlighted the moral, rather than just the military and political, dimension of this NATO enlargement. I would also like to extend particular thanks to the President of the United States, George W. Bush, as the United States has in particular defended the political necessity of this enlargement, in order that this enlargement serve both to eliminate the injustices of the past and to provide a real guarantee of security for the future. Today we have true reason to rejoice, as this is a great day for Latvia. All of us present here can feel it as a rare privilege to witness such an historic moment.

The road to this moment has been long and difficult, we have had to work hard and will have to work hard into the future. Requirements will be very high. They are the same as for current member states and there are very many elements which we have not had to comply with up to now. It was not necessary for us to provide for the flow of documents to such a degree, and there will be many other things, which we as a member state will have to do. This will require resources as well as staff. We must continue educating our people who will have to head off to Brussels, for example, to take up various important posts. Therefore I invite young people to see career opportunities here, to study languages and acquire a variety of skills and abilities, as we will very much need highly qualified staff able to carry out all that is needed for us to fully meet our commitments.

I would like to thank NATO member states for taking a decision, which ensures justice, both by eliminating an historic injustice and securing justice now and for the future. I would also like to congratulate them on taking a wise decision, in all events a pragmatic one, in inviting these countries to join their community, as they have proved through the preparation process how seriously they take all the requirements and how much they stand for the same values as current member states. I also thank them all for giving us hope that Europe and North America will support us in the future and we will never revisit the horrors our people have experienced - I thank them that we are now entering a completely new era of history. It will be a new Europe built on new foundations, where each nation, our Latvian nation as all others, will be able to look to the future with full confidence, knowing that all their efforts and hopes can be fulfilled without brutal interference from other parties.

We will increasingly engage in world affairs, we will be warned of everything in due time and we will have our say on it all. The challenges that the world now faces do not pass us by, therefore it is good to be among those working hard to solve them.

URL: http://www.am.gov.lv/en/?id=3505

 

Speech of the President of the Republic of Latvia, Vaira Vike-Freiberga at the EAPC Summit, Prague Congress Centre, 22 November 2002

 

Mr. Chairman,

Excellencies,

Latvia after the historic invitation it received yesterday is looking forward to contributing to the security and stability of Europe in the framework of the NATO Alliance. But at the same time we welcome the continuation of NATO's open door policy and its readiness to consider applications from other countries as they approach on their own in the same path that we have been following. The success, because we consider it as such, of our invitation, has been achieved through very hard work, diligent effort and close collaboration between the aspirant countries.

This collaboration is something that has prepared us for integration within NATO structures, but it also prepared us for extending our fair view beyond the confines of the alliance. As an aspirant country Latvia has already been privileged to offer consultations on the variety of issues touching social, political and economic reforms in such countries as Croatia, Macedonia, Georgia, Ukraine, Kazakhstan, and we are very happy to continue in that way since the path we have followed has been one of accelerated reforms, where we have been trying to catch up to the rest of Europe in a very brief time. The political commitment has been there from our part, the effort has been strenuous and we have acquired certain expertise in effecting reforms quickly, which as it were we are ready now to export to all and sundry who would be willing to collaborate on this with us.

We are, of course, committed to making our contribution to the international fight against the new threats that the world faces that do not know any borders that are of the international kind. I am speaking, of course, of international terrorism and proliferation of the weapons of mass destruction. These are dangers that touch all equally, no matter what part of the globe we happen to live in. These are dangers that we have to tackle, and do so jointly. We stand ready to collaborate with all the members of the Euro-Atlantic Partnership Council. We consider it an excellent initiative, one, which has to make a contribution in extending the area of peace and stability in the world.

Thank you, Mr Chairman.

URL: http://www.am.gov.lv/en/?id=3507

 

Remarks by the President of the United States, George W. Bush to the Citizens of Vilnius, Vilnius, Lithuania, 23 November 2002 (extracts)

"This is a great day in the history of Lithuania, in the history of the Baltics, in the history of NATO, and in the history of freedom. The countries of NATO have opened the doors of our Alliance to Lithuania and six other European democracies. And I have the honor of sharing this message with you: We proudly invite Lithuania to join us in NATO, the great Atlantic Alliance.

Many doubted that freedom would come to this country, but the United States always recognized an independent Lithuania. We knew that this continent would not remain divided. We knew that arbitrary lines drawn by dictators would be erased, and those lines are now gone. No more Munichs. No more Yaltas. The long night of fear, uncertainty, and loneliness is over. You're joining the strong and growing family of NATO. Our Alliance has made a solemn pledge of protection, and anyone who would choose Lithuania as an enemy has also made an enemy of the United States of America.

In the face of aggression, the brave people of Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia will never again stand alone."

"You are needed in the NATO Alliance. You will contribute to our common security. Yet the strength of NATO does not only depend on the might of armies, but on the character of men and women.

We must be willing to stand in the face of evil, to have the courage to always face danger. The people of the Baltic states have shown these qualities to the world. You have known cruel oppression and withstood it. You were held captive by an empire and you outlived it. And because you have paid its cost you know the value of human freedom."

"Over a decade ago, hundreds of thousands of Lithuanians, Latvians and Estonians joined hands, from Tallinn to Vilnius, to show your love for freedom. Near Cathedral Square is a stone commemorating that struggle. Inscribed on that stone is one word: Miracle. The recent history of the Baltic states truly is a miracle. You've gained your freedom; you have won your independence. You now join a great Alliance, and your miracle goes on."

URL: http://usinfo.state.gov/topical/pol/nato/02112306.htm

 

Opening address by the President of the Republic of Latvia, Vaira Vike-Freiberga at the LATO 2nd International Conference "Post Prague Agenda: Prospects for cooperation in Eastern and Northern Europe", Riga, 6 December 2002

 

Excellencies,

Ladies and gentlemen,

It is a pleasure for me to welcome such a large number of delegates from so many countries to this international conference, which is being jointly organized by LATO, the Konrad Adenauer Fund and the World Federation of Free Latvians. In March of 2000 I had the privilege to address LATO's founding conference. I am pleased at LATO's accomplishments since then in promoting Latvia's entry into the NATO Alliance and in maintaining a high level of Latvian public support for this top foreign policy priority.

Two weeks ago in Prague, NATO's member states made the historic decision to invite Latvia and six other former captive nations to accede to the Alliance. This was a day that Latvia and her fellow aspirant countries had been awaiting for a very long time. For Latvia and her neighbours, the decision in Prague represents a vindication of the principles of international justice. It signifies an end to the last sequels of the Second World War, which began with the signing of the Molotov-Ribbentrop pact in 1939 and which resulted in the immoral division of Europe into outdated "spheres of influence."

Our people know the value of liberty and the loss of it. Our people know the meaning of security and the loss of it. Now, at the beginning of the 21st century, we have gained the assurance that we shall no longer be left out in the cold to face the threat of suffering and injustice. We have regained the right to enjoy the same rights and responsibilities that NATO has been defending for so long.

Latvia, Estonia, Lithuania, and four other aspirant countries have travelled a long and difficult road to receive the recognition and trust that has been accorded them. We are grateful to NATO's member states for their faith in us and hope that the ratification process will not experience any undue delays. We thank President Bush for expressing his personal support to us in Vilnius on November the 23rd. We shall continue to do what is necessary to meet all of the necessary criteria for NATO membership. And we shall contribute in a meaningful manner to the strength of the Alliance.

I extend a particular welcome to the representatives from Ukraine, Georgia and other countries that are attempting to follow the same path of reform that we have been taking. We welcome the continuation of NATO's open door policy and its readiness to consider the applications of other aspirant countries. We will help these countries in their efforts, just as NATO's current members have helped us.

In just one week's time, Latvia, Estonia, Lithuania and seven other countries also hope to receive official invitations to join the European Union at the Copenhagen Summit. We view accession to NATO and the EU as parallel and equally important processes for ensuring the security, stability and prosperity of our continent.

 

Ladies and gentlemen,

Our countries have travelled far in their paths of reform, but we still have a ways to go before we attain the same standards of living as our Western neighbours. I hope that today's international conference on Latvia's and on Europe's future within the framework of NATO and the EU helps to place many important issues in a clearer perspective. I am confident that the discussions at this conference will be fruitful and stimulating, as we work together to realize our dream of a stronger and more united European continent.

URL: http://www.am.gov.lv/en/?id=3510

 

DOCUMENTS

The official invitation letter to join NATO received by the Latvian Minister of Foreign Affairs Sandra Kalniete on 21 November 2002: http://www.am.gov.lv/pic/PragasSummit/letter.jpg

 

The response letter of Latvian Foreign Minister Sandra Kalniete on the matter of accession talks, addressed to NATO Secretary General Lord Robertson on 25 November 2002: http://www.am.gov.lv/pic/PragasSummit/Response_letter.jpg

 

Prague Summit Declaration Issued by the Heads of State and Government participating in the meeting of the North Atlantic Council in Prague on 21 November 2002 (extracts)

"Today, we have decided to invite Bulgaria, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Romania, Slovakia and Slovenia to begin accession talks to join our Alliance. We congratulate them on this historic occasion, which so fittingly takes place in Prague. The accession of these new members will strengthen security for all in the Euro-Atlantic area, and help achieve our common goal of a Europe whole and free, united in peace and by common values. NATO's door will remain open to European democracies willing and able to assume the responsibilities and obligations of membership, in accordance with Article 10 of the Washington Treaty."

"Admitting Bulgaria, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Romania, Slovakia and Slovenia as new members will enhance NATO's ability to face the challenges of today and tomorrow. They have demonstrated their commitment to the basic principles and values set out in the Washington Treaty, the ability to contribute to the Alliance's full range of missions including collective defence, and a firm commitment to contribute to stability and security, especially in regions of crisis and conflict. We will begin accession talks immediately with the aim of signing Accession Protocols by the end of March 2003 and completing the ratification process in time for these countries to join the Alliance at the latest at our Summit in May 2004. During the period leading up to accession, the Alliance will involve the invited countries in Alliance activities to the greatest extent possible. We pledge our continued support and assistance, including through the Membership Action Plan (MAP). We look forward to receiving the invitees' timetables for reforms, upon which further progress will be expected before and after accession in order to enhance their contribution to the Alliance."

Full text of the Declaration: http://www.nato.int/docu/pr/2002/p02-127e.htm

 

Chairman's Summary of the Meeting of the Euro-Atlantic Partnership Council at Summit Level, Prague, 22 November 2002

1. The Heads of State and Government, or their representatives, of the 46 member states of the Euro-Atlantic Partnership Council (EAPC), met today in Prague to discuss the security challenges of the 21st century. They underlined their joint commitment to strengthen and extend peace and stability in the Euro-Atlantic area, on the basis of the shared values and principles that underlie their cooperation.

2. The EAPC Heads of State and Government recognised that Allied and Partner countries face many of the same new threats to security and expressed their determination to work together in meeting these new challenges. They reaffirmed the resolve of their states to fight the scourge of terrorism, as expressed in the EAPC statement of 12 September 2001. They stressed the importance of initiatives aimed at increasing the EAPC's contribution to the fight against terrorism. They welcomed the Partnership Action Plan against Terrorism, developed by Allies and Partners, as a concrete expression of their desire to join forces against the terrorist menace, consistent with their national policies and capabilities.

3. EAPC Heads of State and Government also reaffirmed their commitment to Euro-Atlantic Partnership and their determination to build on the success of the EAPC and Partnership for Peace (PfP) across all areas of consultation and cooperation. As NATO evolves, so should the substance and process of its cooperation with Partners. With this in view, EAPC Heads of State and Government discussed enhancing political and security-related consultations, adopting a broader approach to security in EAPC and PfP work, increasing the association of Partners with NATO's decision making process in relevant areas, and intensifying the day-to-day interaction between the Alliance and Partners at all appropriate levels and structures.

4. The EAPC Heads of State and Government received a report on the "Comprehensive Review of the Euro-Atlantic Partnership Council and Partnership for Peace," undertaken by Allies and Partners following the Spring 2002 meetings of NATO and EAPC Ministers, and fully supported the set of proposed measures. They emphasised the continued importance of the Partnership initiatives launched at the Washington Summit and reaffirmed their support for the further vigorous implementation of these initiatives. They stressed that interoperability remained a core element of PfP cooperation and should be further enhanced.

5. EAPC Heads of State and Government stressed the value of work in flexible formats, engaging those Allies and Partners most willing and able to contribute to specific projects. They noted the Partnership Action Plan mechanism proposed in the Report, which will be instrumental in this regard. They underlined that both substance and process of co-operation in the framework of EAPC and PfP should take full account of the particular and diverse needs and circumstances of individual Partners, including those in Central Asia and the Caucasus. To this end, relations between the Alliance and interested Partners needed to be more individualised and - in such context - more comprehensive. They therefore welcomed the new mechanism of Individual Partnership Action Plans, which would be available to interested Partners and instrumental in promoting more focused cooperation and in supporting democratic reform.

6. EAPC Heads of State and Government reaffirmed the commitment of the Euro-Atlantic community to peace, security and stability in the Balkans. They welcomed initiatives to further strengthen EAPC's contribution to security and stability at the sub-regional level, including in South-Eastern Europe.

7. EAPC Heads of State and Government remained determined in their commitment to a vibrant and dynamic Euro-Atlantic Partnership and to vigorous implementation of all the initiatives aiming at adapting it fully to the challenges of the 21st century.

URL: http://www.nato.int/docu/pr/2002/p02-128e.htm

 

Joint Communiqué of the Ministerial Committee, Meeting of the Ministers of Defence of the Baltic States, Riga, 10 December 2002 (extracts)

"The Minister of Defence of the Republic of Estonia, the Minister of Defence of the Republic of Latvia, the Minister of National Defence of the Republic of Lithuania, as a Ministerial Committee,

Having met in Riga, Latvia on 10 December 2002,

Welcomed the achieved success in receiving the invitation to join the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation and expressed their will to continue close co-operation in the future within the NATO framework and agreed to co-operate and share views during the accession talks with NATO.

Recognized the important role of the Baltic defence cooperation in preparing the Baltic states for NATO membership and in further contribution to NATO.

Agreed that the Baltic States' joint projects demonstrate the ability and experience of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania to work in a multinational framework and to develop the skills for consensus building that characterizes the Alliance.

Confirmed the determination of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania to further develop defence co-operation among the three countries in order to enhance their contribution to the European security in general and to NATO's missions in particular.

Expressed their support and readiness to contribute to the international peace building efforts and to the fight against international terrorism.

Reiterated their nations' commitment to contribute to the development of the European Security and Defence Identity and to the achievement of the EU Headline Goals.

Re-confirmed their continuous determination to participate in the international peace support operation KFOR and to further co-operate in this highly important area."

"The Ministers:

1. Took note of the new opportunities for the Baltic co-operation in the development and use of specialist units in NATO framework and tasked the Lithuanian Commander of the Land Forces to co-ordinate common view on possible co-operation in specialisation by the end of January 2003.

2. Tasked the Chiefs of Defence to come up with evaluation and suggestions on how Baltic co-operation projects could be integrated into NATO structures."

Full text of the Joint Communiqué: http://www.mod.gov.lv/english/05jaunumi/index.php?id=937

 

FOR MORE INFORMATION

CONTACT INFORMATION

Latvia's Liaison Office with NATO Headquarters in Brussels
Address: NATO HQ, Mission of Latvia, B-1110, Brussels, Belgium
Telephone: (32) 2 707 28 87; (32) 2 707 28 88
Fax: (32) 2 707 28 89
E-mail: lvsecretary@hq.nato.int

Latvian Transatlantic Organisation (LATO)
Address: Latvian Academic Library, Rupniecibas 10, Riga, LV 1235, Latvia
Telephone: (+371) 7 322 883
Fax: (+371) 7 106 202
E-mail: lato@lato.lv

USEFUL LINKS
Prague Summit, 21 - 22 November 2002: http://www.natosummit.cz/, http://www.nato.int/prague/
Latvian delegation at the Prague Summit (documents, speeches, audio and photos): http://www.am.gov.lv/en/?id=4467
Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Latvia: http://www.am.gov.lv/en/?id=4445
Ministry of Defence of the Republic of Latvia: http://www.mod.gov.lv/
Latvian Transatlantic Organisation (LATO): http://www.lato.lv/
Information on NATO enlargement issues: http://www.expandnato.org/
NATO Enlargement Daily Brief: http://www.expandnato.org/nedb.html