March

Students from Bremen visit Latvian Foreign Ministry

On 28 February 2007, 17 social science students from the University of Bremen visited the Latvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Prior to their visit, two of the students had made a closer analysis of the situation in Latvia.

Selected poems of Juris Kronbergs published in Estonian

The Estonian publishing house Loomingu Raamatukogu has released a book of selected poems by the Latvian poet Juris Kronbergs, entitled Maa-alune luule (Underground Poems), which includes poems from a number of publications by the Latvian poet.

Foreign Minister meets with ambassadors of GUAM countries

On 1 March 2007, Foreign Minister Artis Pabriks met with the resident ambassadors of the GUAM countries: the Ambassador of Ukraine, Raul Chilachava; the Ambassador of Azerbaijan, Tofig Zulfugarov; and the Ambassador of Moldova, Eduard Melnic.

Latvian Ambassador and Marshal of the Polish Sejm agree to maintain dialogue on key EU issues

In his meeting with the Marshal of the Polish Sejm, Marek Jurek, on 28 February 2007, the Latvian Ambassador to Poland, Alberts Sarkanis, emphasized that it is essential to maintain a dialogue on highly important issues in both bilateral and multilateral subject areas concerning the European Union.

Participants of Presidential Classroom programme visit Latvian Embassy in the U.S.

On 28 February 2007, participants of the programme Presidential Classroom - secondary school students from various countries - visited the Latvian Embassy in the United States. The acting Head of the Embassy, Maris Selga, addressed the students and familiarised them with the work of the Embassy, and briefed them on current international relations issues.

Foreign Minister expresses support for NGO international projects and activities for educating Latvian public

On 1 March 2007, during his meeting with representatives of non-governmental organizations (NGOs), Foreign Minister Artis Pabriks expressed his support for international projects and activities planned by NGOs this year for the purpose of educating the Latvian public. Mr Pabriks emphasized that NGOs have an important role in the implementation of national goals and in the promotion of Latvia abroad, and therefore, mutual co-operation is particularly essential.

Latvia and U.S. successfully co-operate in e-PINE framework

On 1 March 2007, the Under-Secretary of State and Political Director of the Foreign Ministry, Ilgvars Klava, is participating in the consultations of e-PINE (Enhanced Partnership in Northern Europe) policy directors in Washington in order to discuss European Neighbourhood Policy, and topical international policy issues.

Foreign Minister to participate in GAERC meeting in Brussels

On 5-6 March 2007, Foreign Minister Artis Pabriks will be in Brussels to participate in the meeting of the EU General Affairs and External Relations Council (GAERC), which will include the discussion on the draft conclusions of the European Council of 8 and 9 March.

Co-operation with medium-income countries to be promoted

On 1-2 March 2007, the Spanish government organised a conference in Madrid, which was dedicated to discussions about the most effective co-operation instruments and methods with medium-income countries. 

Latvian non-citizens will be able to travel to Norway without visas

The Embassy of the Kingdom of Norway in Riga has informed the Latvian Foreign Ministry that as of 5 March 2007, resident Latvian non-citizens will not be required to obtain visas when travelling to Norway.

First meeting of Latvia-Azerbaijan Intergovernmental Commission on Economic, Scientific, Technical and Cultural Co-operation

On 2 March 2007, the first meeting of the Latvia-Azerbaijan Intergovernmental Commission on Economic, Scientific, Technical, and Cultural Co-operation held on 1-2 March in Baku resulted in the signing of a mutual protocol for co-operation.

Foreign Minister to address ceremonial opening of commencement of renovation in new building of Latvian representation to EU in Brussels

On 5 March 2007, Foreign Minister Artis Pabriks will formally open the commencement of the renovation works in the new building of the Latvian representation to the EU in Brussels.

Latvian writer Nora Ikstena visits Ireland

On 1 March 2007, the Latvian writer Nora Ikstena visited Dublin to attend the launch of the book The Third Shore. Ms Ikstena's visit to Ireland was sponsored by the Latvian Embassy in Ireland.

The Netherlands has not opened its labour market to Latvian nationals

The Foreign Ministry draws attention to the fact that information disseminated by Latvian media, viz., that as from 1 March 2007, the Netherlands opens its labour market to citizens of those EU member states which joined the EU in 2004, is not true.

Ambassadors to be acquainted with works by Latvian sculptors

On 6 March 2007, at the exhibition hall Arsenals, the State Protocol of the Latvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs will continue to acquaint members of the foreign diplomatic corps resident in Latvia with art objects stored at the depositories of the Latvian National Museum of Art.

Foreign Minister: "Latvia's representation will become centre of Latvian culture"

On 5 March 2007, Foreign Minister Artis Pabriks participated in a ceremonial event dedicated to the beginning of renovation works at the new building of Latvia's Permanent Representation to the EU in Brussels. The Foreign Minister expressed the hope that the renovated building will not only be home for the representation but that it will also become the centre of Latvian culture.

Latvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs does not recognize "parliamentary elections" in Abkhazia

The Latvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs regards the "parliamentary elections" held in the Georgian region of Abkhazia as illegitimate and reiterates its support for Georgia's sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Latvia's Honorary Consul in Peru hosts official reception for Latvian businessmen

On 6 March 2007, Latvia's Honorary Consul in Peru, Raul Lozano Merino, will host an official reception on the occasion of the visit by members of the Latvian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) to Peru.

Cabinet of Ministers authorises Prime Minister to sign Latvian-Russian Border Agreement

On 6 March 2007, under the law On Authorisation to the Cabinet of Ministers to sign the draft Border Agreement between the Republic of Latvia and the Russian Federation on the Latvian and Russian State Border Initialled on 7 August 1997, the Cabinet of Ministers adopted an order establishing that the Agreement between the Republic of Latvia and the Russian Federation on the Border between Latvia and Russia, is to be signed by Prime Minister Aigars Kalvitis on behalf of the Republic of Latvia.

Latvian Foreign Minister emphasizes importance of integrated energy policy for Europe

On 5 March 2007, Foreign Minister Artis Pabriks participated in the EU General Affairs and External Relations Council (GAERC) meeting in Brussels, which included a wide-ranging exchange of opinions on the draft conclusions of the Spring European Council to be held on 8-9 March.

Head of UNHCR Regional Office in Stockholm praises co-operation in refugee rights' issues

From 6 to 7 March 2007, the Head of the UNHCR (The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees) Regional Office in Stockholm, Machiko Kondo, is on a working visit to Latvia.

Foreign Ministry State Secretary to participate in Latvia-U.S. political consultations in Washington, DC

On 7 March 2007, the Foreign Ministry State Secretary, Normans Penke, will make a visit to the United States to participate in the Latvia-U.S. political consultations to be held on 8-9 March in Washington, DC.

Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs extends condolences to Australian and Indonesian foreign ministers

The Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Minister of the Interior, Ivars Godmanis, has extended his deepest sympathy to the Australian Foreign Minister, Alexander Downer, and to Indonesian Foreign Minister, Dr N.Hassan Virajuda, in connection with the plane crash in the Indonesian city of Yogyakarta.

Foreign Minister Pabriks reiterates Latvia's aspirations for OECD membership

On 8 March 2007, during his meeting in Paris with the Secretary General of the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), Angel Gurria, the Latvian Foreign Minister reiterated Latvia's aspirations for full membership of this organization.

Latvia has achieved progress in reducing visa denial rate to Canada

On 5-6 March 2007, the Director of the Foreign Ministry Second Bilateral Relations Department, Signe Jansone, visited Canada to meet with the representatives from the Canadian Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, and the Immigration and Citizenship Department.

Eriks Zunda participates in the First World Forum of the Leaders of Ajerbaijani and Turkish Diaspora Organisations

From 8 to 11 March 2007, Parliamentary Secretary of the Foreign Ministry, Eriks Zunda, and a Latvian delegation is staying in Baku to participate in the first World Forum of the leaders of Azerbaijani and Turkish diaspora organisations.

Australian Ambassador to OECD promises Artis Pabriks to introduce equal terms for entry of EU citizens to Australia

On 8 March 2007, in Paris, France, Foreign Minister Artis Pabriks met with the Australian Ambassador to the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development, Veronique Ingram, who promised that as of 2008, equal terms would be applicable for the entry of nationals of all EU member states in Australia.

Foreign Ministry to present brochure "What We Need to Know when Travelling Abroad"

On 12 March 2007, media representatives are invited to attend the presentation of the brochure What We Need to Know when Travelling Abroad published by the Foreign Ministry. The event will be held at 2.30 pm at the Foreign Ministry third floor conference hall.

Foreign Ministry Under-Secretary of State to participate in informal meeting of EU Development Ministers

On 12-13 March 2007, the Under-Secretary of State of the Latvian Foreign Ministry, Maija Manika, will participate in the informal meeting of the EU Development Ministers in Bonn, Germany. These informal ministerial meetings are organized by the country holding the EU Presidency.

Latvian delegation to learn about latest U.S. energy policy developments

From 5 to 12 March 2007, a delegation of Latvian energy experts, led by Mr Ugis Sarma, the Director of the Energy Department of the Ministry of Economics, are on a working visit to the United States. The purpose of the visit is to learn about the latest developments in U.S. energy policy, the U.S. experience in the use of alternative energy sources, and the development of "clean coal" technology.

Foreign Minister to give lecture on EU challenges at Diplomatic Academy of Vienna

On 12 March 2007, Foreign Minister Artis Pabriks will read a lecture at the Diplomatic Academy of Vienna on the topic of EU global challenges and Latvia's prospects.

Latvian Ambassador to Germany to address "Artist Award 2007" ceremony

On 11 March 2007, the world-famous Latvian violinist Gidon Kremer will be presented with the Braunschweig Classix festival and NORD/LB Artist Award 2007. The awards ceremony will be addressed by the Latvian Ambassador to Germany, Martins Virsis.

Ambassador discusses co-operation opportunities with Governor General of Austria's Styria region

On 8 March 2007, Latvian Ambassador Aivars Groza met with the Governor General of Austria's Styria region, Franz Voves, to discuss future co-operation between Latvia and the Federal State of Styria. The discussions covered the joint Styria-Latvia events to be held on 4 May, this year, in honour of the anniversary of the declaration of Latvia's independence and Europe Week.

Exhibition in Berlin of works by students of Latvian Academy of Art

On 9 March 2007, the Berlin art union Neue Gesellschaft für Bildende Kunst (NGBK) will open a contemporary art exhibition of the works by students of the Latvian Academy of Art. It is entitled RigaREVIEW. The opening address will be made by Ms Dace Veidmane, the Third Secretary of the Latvian Embassy in Germany.

German Foreign Minister expresses support for signing of Latvia-Russia border agreement

The German Federal Minister for Foreign Affairs, Frank-Walter Steinmeier, has expressed his pleasure on the prospective signing of the Latvia-Russia border agreement.

Foreign Minister: "Europe must change to respond to global challenges"

On 12 March 2007, reading a lecture at the Diplomatic Academy of Vienna, Foreign Minister Artis Pabriks emphasized that Europe must change to be able to respond to global challenges. Minister Pabriks mentioned as key issues the strengthening of international security, an increase of economic competitiveness, limited energy sources, climate changes, and the demographic and migration situation.

Foreign Ministry State Secretary reports on results of political consultations in Washington, DC

On 8-9 March 2007, the Foreign Ministry Secretary of State, Normans Penke, participated in political consultations in Washington, DC, to discuss current issues on the agenda between Latvia and the United States.

Seminar in Italy for Latvian regional journalists on EU issues

From 12 to 16 March 2007, as part of the celebrations of the 50th anniversary of the Treaties of Rome, the Latvian Foreign Ministry and the European Commission Representation in Latvia will hold a seminar in Italy for journalists from the district and regional media of Latvia. At the seminar, representatives from 14 district and regional media outlets will be briefed on the Treaties of Rome in the city which hosted the signing of the treaties, and will be acquainted with Italy's experience and position on the future of Europe, in its capacity as a member state of the European Union.

Mr Edgars Skuja to participate in meeting of EU and Southeast Asian foreign ministers

The Under-Secretary of State of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Edgars Skuja, is to lead the Latvian delegation to the meeting of foreign ministers of the EU and Southeast Asia that is to be held on 14-15 March in Nurnberg, Germany.

Latvia and Israel sign Programme on Co-operation in Culture, Education and Science for 2007-2010

On 12-13 March 2007, the Programme on Co-operation in the Fields of Culture, Education and Science for 2007-2010 was signed between Latvia and Israel in Jerusalem.

State Secretary of Foreign Ministry discusses current international issues with Special Representative of UN Secretary General

On 13 March 2007, the State Secretary of the Foreign Ministry, Normans Penke, met with Jan Eliasson, the Special Representative of the UN Secretary General for Darfur, and discussed current international issues and the situation in Darfur. The special representative emphasized that the Darfur crisis cannot be resolved by military intervention. It requires a political dialogue that addresses all parties involved in the conflict.

Foreign Minister Pabriks: "The uncontrolled spread of weapons of mass destruction - one of today's major global challenges"

On 13 March 2007, in his address to the participants at the Conference on Disarmament in Geneva, Foreign Minister Artis Pabriks stressed that an uncontrolled proliferation of nuclear technology, biological and chemical weapons is one of the major modern challenges for the international community regardless of the significant progress reached at the global level with respect to the arms control. Terrorists' efforts to take control over the weapons increases the possibility of their usage.

U.S. Senate vote - a step toward introduction of visa-free regime with the United States

The Latvian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Artis Pabriks, regards the draft bill, approved by the U.S. Senate and containing Senator George Voinovich's proposals for the expansion of the U.S. Visa Waiver Programme (VWP), as a step toward the introduction of a visa-free regime with the United States, as it portrays the security situation in the aftermath of 11 September 2001.

Latvian President's biography published in Italian language

On 14 March 2007, the book Il Percorso di Una Vita containing the biography of Latvian President Vaira Vike-Freiberga and also relating information about Latvia in the 20^th century was released in Florence, Italy.

Turkey appreciates Latvia's support for its efforts to integrate into EU

On 13 March 2007, as part of his visit to Geneva, Foreign Minister Artis Pabriks met with the Turkish Minister of State, Mehmet Aydin, who expressed his gratitude for Latvia's support to Turkey in its efforts to integrate into the European Union.

Foreign Minister Pabriks invites citizens to pay tribute to the fallen but not to support political radicalism

The greatest tragedy of the last century – the Second World War – still lives in the memories of its participants and society, and everyone is entitled to pay tribute to those who lost their lives in the war.

Tikhvin Monastery thanks Latvia for its contribution to the return of the Icon of the Mother of God

"Tikhvin Monastery is grateful to Latvia for its help and co-operation in returning its object of sanctity - the Icon of the Mother of God", emphasized Monk Benedict, a representative of Tikhvin Monastery, at his meeting with Iveta Sers at the Consulate General of the Republic of Latvia in St Petersburg. As a token of gratitude for Latvia's contribution, Monk Benedict presented the Consul General with a copy of the Icon of the Mother of God from Khazan.

Foreign Ministry Under-Secretary of State addresses issue of eased visa procedure for travelling to Vietnam

On 14-15 March 2007, the Under-Secretary of State of the Latvian Foreign Ministry, Edgars Skuja, took part in the ASEAN-EU (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) meeting of foreign ministers in Nuremberg, Germany.

Latvian animated film "Lote from the Village of Inventors" screened at Baltic Film Festival in Ottawa

From 15 to 18 March 2007, Ottawa will be the location for the seventh Baltic Film Festival in Canada. This year Latvia will present the Latvian-Estonian joint production of the full-length animated film Lote from the Village of Inventors.

Foreign Minister to sign agreement on co-operation with NGOs in EU matters

On 19 March 2007, Foreign Minister Artis Pabriks will sign an agreement of co-operation with non-governmental organizations, on the exchange of information and the co-ordination of various joint projects on EU matters. The signing of the agreement will take place at 11.00 am at the Foreign Ministry (conference room No 250).

Foreign Minister Pabriks briefs Foreign Policy Council on foreign policy developments

On 16 March 2007, Foreign Minister Artis Pabriks briefed members of the Foreign Policy Council on the latest developments in Latvia's foreign policy. Minister Pabriks noted that at the Geneva Conference on Disarmament on 13 March, which he attended for the first time, he voiced Latvia's concerns about the uncontrolled spread of nuclear technology and biological and chemical weapons.

Latvian Foreign Ministry regards creation of Palestinian National Unity Government as a step towards unity

The Latvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs regards the creation of the Palestinian National Unity Government on 17 March as a step towards internal unity.

Foreign Minister Pabriks: Improving co-operation with NGOs will reduce public estrangement from government

On 19 March 2007, Foreign Minister Artis Pabriks signed a co-operation agreement with the Civil Alliance Latvia, the European Movement in Latvia, the Club Maja - Youth for a United Europe, and the Centre for Public Policy Providus, on the exchange of information and the co-ordination of various joint projects on EU matters. Minister Pabriks expressed the hope that the expansion of co-operation with non-governmental organizations will reduce the public's estrangement from the government, will raise public awareness of foreign affairs and will promote mutual understanding.

Latvian Embassy in Helsinki hosts reception to mark launch of Sandra Kalniete's book in Finland

On 19 March 2007, the Latvian Ambassador to Finland, Einars Semanis, hosted a reception on the occasion of the launch of the Finnish language edition of Sandra Kalniete's book With Dance Shoes in Siberian Snows. Finnish politicians, public and media representatives, and foreign diplomats will be present at the event.

Order No.151 on Signing of the Draft Agreement between the Republic of Latvia and the Russian Federation on the State Border between Latvia and Russia

Sovereign Military Order of Malta interested in developing aid projects for homeless children and elderly people in Latvia

On 19 March 2007, Foreign Minister Artis Pabriks met with the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Sovereign Military Hospitaller Order of Malta, H.E. Dr Johannes Baptist Fisher-Hollweg, who arrived on an introductory visit to Latvia. Mr Fisher-Hollweg briefed the Foreign Minister on his plans to implement aid projects for homeless children, the elderly and the poor. The project is aimed to provide support to people of all confessions.

Latvian Foreign Ministry organizes experience seminar for Montenegrin experts

On 20-21 March 2007, the Latvian Foreign Ministry Security Policy Department, in co-operation with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), will hold a seminar in Riga for strategic export control experts from Montenegro.

Latvian Foreign Minister extends condolences to families of victims of explosion and fire tragedy in Russia

On 20 March 2007, Foreign Minister Artis Pabriks sent a letter of condolences to his Russian colleague, Sergei Lavrov, expressing his deepest sympathy and support for the families of those injured and killed in the tragedies.

Youth declaration on future EU development to be presented to Foreign Minister Pabriks

On 21 March 2007, Foreign Minister Artis Pabriks will meet with representatives of Latvian youth who will present and submit a declaration on future development of the European Union. The meeting will be held at 12.30 pm at the Foreign Ministry (conference room No 250).

Latvia approves Latvia-Russia inter-governmental committee

On 20 March 2007, the Latvian Cabinet of Ministers approved the new Latvia-Russia inter-governmental committee.

Foreign Minister Pabriks calls for mutual tolerance

On 21 March 2007, in acknowledging the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, Foreign Minister Artis Pabriks calls on the people of Latvia to distance themselves from a stereotypic way of thinking and to judge the people not by appearances but rather by their actions.

Latvian musicians to perform in Germany

In honour of the 50^th anniversary of the Treaty of Rome, the Federal Government of Germany will host a large-scale European festival Europafest.

Latvia's Honorary Consul starts work in Oulu province in Finland

The Chief Executive Officer of the Finnish bank Oulun Osuuspankki, Timo Levo, has been appointed Latvia's Honorary Consul to the province of Oulu in the north of Finland. Mr Levo has enjoyed a successful career in the banking sector and has held his present position at Oulun Osuuspankki since 1996. As an active member of a number of foundations and the Rotary Club, he has also been the Head of the Oulu Red Cross Division.

Latvian Embassy in Lithuania to hold seminar on latest developments in financial sector

On 22 March 2007, the Latvian Embassy in Vilnius, in co-operation with the Latvian Chamber of Commerce in Lithuania, will hold a workshop meeting for Latvian entrepreneurs, entitled "Latvian Company Guide in Lithuania's Financial Sector: Latest Developments, Prognoses and Opportunities".

Foreign Minister Pabriks: Latvia's image must excite people abroad

On 21 March 2007, in his address at the conference, Latvia's Image - What We Know, What We Don't Know, What We Have to Do, organized by the Latvian Institute, Foreign Minister Pabriks emphasized that Latvia's image must be created so that the word 'Latvia' leaves a breath-taking impression on foreigners when they hear it and that it leaves a positive impression even on those who might never come to Latvia.

Foreign Minister Pabriks invites young people to come up with alternative solutions for development of EU

On 21 March 2007, during his meeting with representatives of Latvian youth who will present their position on future development of the European Union at the EU Youth Summit on 24-25 March in Rome, Foreign Minister Artis Pabriks called on the young people to propose innovative and alternative solutions.

Latvia participates in Scandinavia's leading travel and tourism trade fair TUR 2007 in Gothenburg

On 23 March 2007, as part of the travel and tourism trade fair TUR 2007, the Latvian Ambassador to Sweden, Elita Kuzma, will open a reception at the Latvian stand. Representatives of Swedish and Latvian tourism companies and media outlets will be present at the reception.

Documentary Punishment for a Dream to be screened at Tartu Art Museum

On 22 March 2007, the documentary film Punishment for a Dream, directed by Andris Rozenbergs from the scenario by Inta Geile-Sipolniece (1994), will be screened at the Tartu Art Museum, where one can also view the exhibition Kurts Fridrihsons. In the Zone of Silence. organised by the Latvian Embassy in Estonia and the Museum of the Occupation of Latvia.

Latvian Ambassador to the Netherlands to open exhibition "Greetings from Riga"

On 25 March 2007, the Latvian Ambassador to the Netherlands, Baiba Braze, will open an exhibition entitled Greetings from Riga, which will be on display at the museum of the City of Veendam, in the northern part of the Netherlands, until 9 September.

Artis Pabriks: "Co-operation between the Baltic states and Nordic countries should be enhanced in the areas of innovation, research and support of exports"

Addressing the Conference Nordic Market: From Export to Transnational Cluster Co-operation on 22 March 2007, Foreign Minister Artis Pabriks emphasized that co-operation between the Baltic states and Nordic countries should be enhanced in the areas of innovation, research and support of exports.

Latvia - Russia Intergovernmental Commission in Moscow to discuss co-operation between both countries

On 23 March 2007, in Moscow, Finance Minister Oskars Spurdzins, the Chairman of the Latvian - Russian Intergovernmental Commission in the areas of economic, scientific and technical, humanitarian and cultural co-operation will meet with his Russian counterpart and Minister of Transport, Igor Levitin.

Foreign Ministry to organize discussion "Latvia - Three Years in NATO: Benefits and Challenges"

On 26 March 2007, Foreign Minister Artis Pabriks will open a round-table discussion on the topic Latvia - Three Years in NATO: Benefits and Challenges for experts, academics and students. The event will be held at noon in the Foreign Ministry's 3^rd floor conference hall. The opening address will be made by the Minister of Defence, Atis Slakteris. This discussion is being held by the Foreign Ministry for the first time and is organized on the occasion of the 3^rd anniversary of Latvia's accession to NATO on 29 March.

Members of Concertgebouw Orchestra to give charity concert for support of Grostona parish school in Latvia

On 24 March 2007, the Latvian Ambassador to the Netherlands, Baiba Braze, will participate in the opening of the charity concert by members of Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra.

Latvian Embassy in Vienna participates in celebrations of the 50th anniversary of the Treaty of Rome

On 25-26 March 2007, the Latvian Embassy in Vienna will participate in the celebrations in Austria and Slovakia devoted to the 50^th anniversary of the Treaty of Rome.

25 March - anniversary of foundation of European Union and of statehood of Belarus

On 25 March 2007, the European Union is marking the 50th anniversary since its formation. On the same date, the people of Belarus will be united in their celebration of the 89th anniversary since Belarus declared its independence for the first time. This is a significant day in the history of the statehood of Belarus.

Meeting of Chairmen of Latvia-Russia Intergovernmental Committee concluded positively

On 23 March 2007, in Moscow, the Chairman of the Latvia-Russia Intergovernmental Committee for the Latvian side, the Minister of Finance, Oskars Spurdzins, met with his Russian counterpart, the Chairman of the Intergovernmental Committee, the Minister of Transport, Igor Levitin. Both ministers discussed the arrangements for the Committee's work and exchanged their opinions on the prospects for development of future co-operation. The officials noted that there is positive development of economic co-operation between both countries.

Indian State Minister for External Affairs to visit Latvia

From 27 to 28 March 2007, the Indian Minister of State for External Affairs, Anand Sharma, will be on a working visit to Latvia. The visit attests to India's growing interest in the strengthening of co-operation with Latvia which, after its accession to the EU, is actively building its foreign policy within the framework of the European Union.

Foreign Ministry supports further sanctions against Iran

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) of Latvia supports the adoption on 24 March 2007 of UN Security Council Resolution 1747 on further sanctions against Iran. Most importantly, the MFA especially commends the unity of the international community, as demonstrated by the unanimous approval of this resolution.

Foreign Minister emphasizes psychological safety and military experience as major benefits of Latvia's membership of NATO

On 26 March 2007, at the opening of a round-table discussion on the topic Latvia - Three Years in NATO: Benefits and Challenges for experts, academics and students, Foreign Minister Artis Pabriks emphasized that the major benefits of Latvia's membership of NATO are psychological safety for the people of Latvia, as well as the military and reform experience which we can pass on to other countries.

Foreign Minister on official visit to Liechtenstein

On 27-28 March 2007, Foreign Minister Artis Pabriks will be on an official visit to the Principality of Liechtenstein. During the visit, Mr Pabriks is scheduled to meet with Erbprinz Alois, Prime Minister Otmar Hasler, and the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Cultural Affairs, and Family and Equal Opportunity, Rita Kieber-Beck. The plan is to discuss bilateral co-operation, co-operation in international organisations and other issues.

Latvian Embassy in Brussels invites to exhibition of works by master teachers from Latvian Academy of Arts

On 24-25 March 2007, in Brussels The European Movement Belgium and the association WindBag held a series of events Brussels – The Capital of Europe, devoted to the 50th anniversary of the Treaty of Rome. As part of the event, the Latvian Embassy in Brussels invites the public to an exhibition at the K Gallery which will display the works by master teachers from the Latvian Academy of Arts: Rector Prof Janis Andris Osis, Pro-rector Prof Aleksejs Naumovs, and the painter Anitra Berzina.

Government supports co-operation between Latvia and Hungary in formation of common centre for visa applications in Chisinau

On 27 March 2007, the Cabinet of Ministers adopted regulations which approved the draft Agreement between the Government of the Republic of Latvia and the Government of the Republic of Hungary onthe Co-operation in Visa Issuance and Other Fields of Consular Work.

President of European Commission congratulates Latvia and Russia on signing of border treaty

José Manuel Barroso, President of the European Commission, in today's broadcast of Europe by Satellite, welcomed the signing of the Latvia-Russia Border Treaty.

Lithuania's Foreign Ministry welcomes signing of Latvia-Russia border agreement

The Foreign Ministry of Lithuania welcomes the signing of the border agreement between Latvia and Russia on 27 March in Moscow.

Embassy in Warsaw hosts readings on history of Latvian – Polish relations

On 27 March 2007, the Latvian Embassy in Poland presented public readings on Latvian-Polish Relations in the XX Century. Eriks Jekabsons from the University of Latvia, who was the author of the presentation, dealt with topical issues in the history of both nations, which are still stirring interest not only among researchers, but also among wider public.

Prime Minister Kalvitis and Patriarch Alexy II discuss relations between Latvia and Russia (The State Chancellery)

On Monday 26 March, Prime Minister Aigars Kalvitis of the Republic of Latvia, commenced his visit to Russia and met with His Holiness Alexy II, Patriarch of Moscow and all Russia.

Latvian and Russian Prime Ministers sign Latvia-Russia border agreement (The State Chancellery)

On 27 March 2007, Prime Minister Kalvitis of the Republic of Latvia, and Mikhail Fradkov, Prime Minister of the Russian Federation, signed the Border Treaty between Latvia and Russia.

Representative from U.S. Department of Homeland Security to visit Riga for the first time

Representative from U.S. Department of Homeland Security to visit Riga for the first time On 27 March 2007, Nathan Sales, the Deputy Assistant Secretary at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security will be on a working visit in Latvia.

Indian Minister of State for External Affairs welcomes signing of Latvia-Russia border agreement

On 27 March 2007, the Latvian Foreign Minister, Artis Pabriks, met with the Indian Minister of State for External Affairs, Anand Sharma, who expressed pleasure at the timing of his visit to Latvia on the historical day of the signing of the Latvia-Russia border agreement.

Finland's Foreign Minister welcomes signing of Latvia-Russia Border Treaty

Finland welcomes the signing of the Latvia-Russia Border Treaty, which is also important for the European Union as it concerns the Union's external border.

NATO Secretary General warmly welcomes signing of Latvia-Russia Border Treaty

In his Statement to the press, NATO Secretary General, Jaap de Hoop Scheffer, noted that the Prime Ministers of the Republic of Latvia and of the Russian Federation today in Moscow signed an important border agreement between the two countries.

Prime Minister Aigars Kalvītis and Mikhail Fradkov, Prime Minister of the Russian Federation, discussed opportunities for closer co-operation of both countries (The State Chancellery)

On 27 March 2007, during his working visit to Moscow, the Latvian Prime Minister, Aigars Kalvitis, met with the Prime Minister of the Russian Federation, Mikhail Fradkov. The meeting concluded with the signing of the Latvia-Russia Border Treaty. After the meeting the Prime Minister Kalvitis and the Latvian delegation attended a working lunch hosted by Mr Fradkov.

Sweden's Foreign Minister notes significance of signing border agreement

"It is pleasing that it has now been possible to remove the obstacles that have long stood in the way of final approval of the Latvian-Russian border agreement and that the agreement has been signed. This is important not just for the two states concerned but also for political developments in Europe as a whole", noted Sweden's Foreign Minister Carl Bildt in his press release.

U.S. welcomes signing of Latvia-Russia Border Treaty

The United States welcomes the signing in Moscow of the Border Treaty between Latvia and Russia on 27 March.

EU High Representative Javier Solana welcomes signing of Latvia-Russia Border Treaty

The EU High Representative for the Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP), Javier Solana, has issued a statement, expressing his appreciation at the signing of the Latvia-Russia Border Treaty.

U.S. highly values results of public information campaign carried out by Foreign Ministry

On 27 March 2007, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs organized the 6th Latvia-U.S. consular working group chaired by the Foreign Ministry's Under-Secretary of State, Edgars Skuja, and consisting of experts from the Foreign and Interior ministries. For the first time the Deputy Assistant Secretary of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Nathan Sales, participated in the working group.

Latvia and Liechtenstein agree on development of co-operation in home affairs, science and economics

On 28 March 2007, during an official visit to the Principality of Liechtenstein, the Latvian Foreign Minister, Artis Pabriks, met with Alois, Hereditary Prince of Liechtenstein, the Prime Minister, Otmar Hasler, and the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Cultural Affairs, and for the Family and Equal Opportunity, Rita Kieber-Beck, to agree on the development of co-operation in the areas of home affairs, science and economics.

Ambassador Bailey Welcomes Border Treaty Signing (U.S. Embassy in Latvia)

On 27 March 2007, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs organized the 6th Latvia-U.S. consular working group chaired by the Foreign Ministry's Under-Secretary of State, Edgars Skuja, and consisting of experts from the Foreign and Interior ministries. For the first time the Deputy Assistant Secretary of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Nathan Sales, participated in the working group.

Latvian director Laila Pakalnina participates in "goEast" film festival in Germany

From 28 March to 3 April 2007, the German city of Wiesbaden will be the location for the 7^th goEast Festival of the Central and Eastern European Film. Latvia will be represented at the festival by the feature film The Hostage directed by Laila Pakalnina.

Latvian Ambassador to Japan, Peteris Vaivars, visits Japanese cities Kobe and Osaka

On 27-28 March 2007, Latvian Ambassador to Japan, Peteris Vaivars, was on a working visit to Kobe, which is a sister city of Riga, and to Osaka, the capital city of the Kansai region.