November

Acting Foreign Minister extends condolences to Russia with regard to tragic events in Togliatti, Samara region

Vinets Veldre, Acting Foreign Minister, and Minister of Health has sent a letter of condolences to Sergey Lavrov, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation with regard to an explosion on a public transport bus in the city of Togliatti.

Youth invited to take part in Development Youth Prize 2007 Focus on Africa - Sustainable Development competition

This year, for the second year in a row, the European Commission DG Development and the European Schoolnet network of European educational establishments is organising a competition Development Youth Prize 2007.

Feature film VOGELFREI presented in co-operation with Latvian Embassy in Washington

The American Film Institute (AFI) is organising the 2007 European Union Film Showcase in co-operation with EU member states and their embassies in Washington from 1 to 20 November.

Foreign Ministry expresses concern over incident in Georgia

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Latvia expresses concern over the incident between the representatives of Georgian authorities and the CIS peace-keepers that occurred in Ganmukhuri village near Zugdidi, Georgia on 30 October.

Political consultations concluded between Latvian and Azerbaijani Foreign Ministries

On 1 November 2007 in Baku, political consultations between the Foreign Ministries of Latvia and Azerbaijan were concluded.

Eriks Zunda to represent Latvia at Euromed conference in Lisbon

Between 5-6 November 2007, Eriks Zunda, Parliamentary Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will represent Latvia at the Euro-Mediterranean (Euromed) Ministerial Conference of the Ministers of Foreign Affairs in Lisbon, Portugal.

Concert by violinist Baiba Skride opens National Celebration of Latvia in Helsinki

On 1 November, the eminent Latvian violinist Baiba Skride presented a concert in Helsinki performing the Violin Concerto No. 2 by Dmitri Shostakovich at the Finlandia concert hall together with the Helsinki Symphony Orchestra.

Canada introduces visa-free regime with Latvia

On 2 November, Normans Penke, during his meeting with Claire A.Poulin, the Ambassador of Canada to Latvia, expressed his appreciation of the Canadian Government's policy to expand the number of the EU states with visa-free access.

89th anniversary of Latvia's Proclamation celebrated in Turkey

Today, on 5 November, the Embassy of Latvia in Turkey is hosting a reception to commemorate the 89th anniversary of the proclamation of the Republic of Latvia.

Art by Latvian painter Laima Eglite exhibited in Tokyo

As part of the National Celebration of Latvia, an exhibition by the Latvian painter Laima Eglite opened at the Gallery Strenger in Tokyo on 3 November. The exhibition is being organised with the support of the Latvian Embassy in Japan.

Normans Penke, Foreign Ministry State Secretary meets with Sergio Gonzalez, Cuban Ambassador to Latvia

On 6 November 2006, Normans Penke, State Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs met with Sergio Gonzalez Gonzalez, Ambassador of Cuba, who is on his accreditation visit to Latvia from 5 to 8 November. The Cuban Ambassador's place of residence is Helsinki, Finland.

Year 2008 announced year of Euro-Mediterranean Inter-Cultural Dialogue at 9th Euro-Mediterranean Ministerial Meeting of the Ministers of Foreign Affairs

On 6 November in Lisbon, Portugal, the 9th Euro-Mediterranean Ministerial Meeting of the Ministers of Foreign Affairs closed, in which Latvia was represented by Eriks Zunda, the Parliamentary Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Latvian Embassy in Azerbaijan participates in exhibition in Baku

On 6 November, the Latvian Embassy in Azerbaijan in co-operation with the Latvian Tourism Development Agency is taking part in the exhibition All different, all equal, being held by the Council of Europe and the Azerbaijani Ministry of Culture and Tourism.

Cabinet of Ministers accepts draft Law on International Assistance

On 6 November, at the sitting of the Cabinet of Ministers, the draft "Law on International Assistance" was accepted.

Latvia's Defence Attaché receives accreditation in Rome

Between 5-7 November as part of his accreditation visit, Defence Attaché of Latvia to Italy, Major Aivars Miruskins, met with several Italian military officials in Rome.

Acting Foreign Minister and Italian Ambassador discuss enhancement of bilateral co-operation in economy and culture

On 6 November, as part of his introductory visit to Latvia, Francesco Puccio, the new Italian Ambassador to Latvia met with Helena Demakova, the acting Foreign Minister. During the meeting, the discussion focused on possible promotion of co-operation between Latvia and Italy in the areas of economy and culture.

Foreign Ministry State Secretary and Cambodian Ambassador discuss tourism co-operation

On 6 November, Normans Penke, State Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, met with Khieu Thavika, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Cambodia who had arrived to Riga on an accreditation visit. The Cambodian Ambassador resides in Moscow.

Representative of U.S. Department of State, Judith Garber, visits Latvia

On Thursday, 8 November, Normans Penke, the State Secretary of the Foreign Ministry, met with Judith Garber, the Deputy Assistant Secretary of State and the Director of the Office of North Central Europe of the U.S. Department of State. Ms Garber is in Riga on an introductory visit from 7 to 8 November.

Foreign Ministry expresses regret on Russian State Duma's decision to suspend Russia's adherence to the Treaty on Conventional Armed Forces in Europe

The Foreign Ministry expresses regret with regard to the decision of the Russian State Duma to suspend Russia's adherence to the Treaty on Conventional Armed Forces in Europe – CFE.

Foreign Ministry expresses concern over current developments in Georgia

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs expresses concern over current development of events in Georgia that has resulted in the imposition of a state of emergency.

European Court of Human Rights delivers judgement in the case Perry v. Latvia

On 8 November 2007, the European Court of Human Rights ("the Court") delivered its judgment in the case of Perry v. Latvia.

Maris Riekstins takes up office as Minister of Foreign Affairs

On 8 November 2007, the Saeima (Parliament of Latvia) appointed Maris Riekstins to the post of Foreign Minister of Latvia.

Ambassador opens exhibition of paintings by Mikelis Fisers in Lithuania

Yesterday on 8 November, at the Vilnius House of Congresses, an extensive exhibition Pārdaba (Supernature) of works by a Latvian painter Mikelis Fisers initiated a series of events to mark the 89th anniversary of the proclamation of the Republic of Latvia.

Opening of Latvian photo exhibition ZZZ in Turkey

Today, on 9 November, as part of the programme of the Latvian Culture Days in Turkey, the Middle East Technical University in Ankara hosts the opening of an exhibition within a photography project entitled ZZZ.

Convention of Latvian businessmen in Latvian Embassy in Russia

Today, on 9 November, the Latvian Embassy in Russia, in co-operation with the Latvian Investment and Development Agency (LIDA) is hosting a convention for Latvian businessmen, during which a seminar will take place on marketing measures for the successful attraction of co-operation partners.

Latvia's Consul-General in St Petersburg visits Republic of Karelia

On 8-9 November 2007, Iveta Sers, Consul-General of Latvia in St. Petersburg made an introductory visit to the Republic of Karelia accompanied by Latvian entrepreneurs.

Latvian Embassy in Israel holds reception to honour 89th anniversary of founding of Latvian Republic

The Latvian Ambassador to Israel, Karlis Eihenbaums, and his spouse Inara Eihenbauma, held a ceremonial reception in Tel Aviv on 8 November to honour the 89th anniversary of the founding of the Republic of Latvia.

Building at Krisjana Valdemara iela 3 handed over to Foreign Ministry

On Monday, 12 November, the historical building at Krisjana Valdemara iela 3 was handed over to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Janis Karklins presents credentials to Co-prince of Andorra

On 12 November, Ambassador Janis Karklins presented his credentials to Joan Enric Vives Sicilia, Episcopal Co-prince of Andorra, the Bishop of Urgell, thus taking up the appointment as non-resident Ambassador to Andorra.

Representatives of leading Egyptian media visit Riga

Egyptian journalists representing the MENA (Middle East News Agency) and the Al Ahram newspaper visited Latvia from 5 to 11 November. Journalists from the Arab World were on an introductory visit to Latvia and during their stay, they met with numerous representatives from the public and private sector in order to broaden their outlook on Latvia and its possible co-operation with Egypt.

UN Committee against Torture reviews periodic report of the Republic of Latvia on enforcement of the Convention against Torture

Between 8 and 9 November in Geneva, the 39th session of the Committee against Torture of the United Nations Organization (UN) examined the second periodic report presented by Latvia on the implementation / of the 1984 Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (the Report).

Lithuanian Foreign Minister congratulates Maris Riekstins on taking up office

On 12 November, Foreign Minister Maris Riekstins met with Antanas Vinkus, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Lithuania to Latvia who presented a letter of congratulations from Lithuanian Foreign Minister Petras Vaitiekunas, on the occasion of Minister Riekstins taking up office.

State Choir Latvija performs in Belgium during Latvian national holiday week

On 13 November, to open the week of festivities celebrating the 89th anniversary of the Republic of Latvia the State choir Latvija and the Tallinn Chamber Orchestra will perform in the Conservatoire Royal de Bruxelles, one of the most famed concert halls for classical music in Brussels, thus starting a series of joint concerts in Belgium.

Maris Riekstins discusses bilateral co-operation with French Ambassador

On 13 November, Foreign Minister Maris Riekstins met with André-Jean Libourel, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of France to Latvia.

Foreign Minister to make first visits to Estonia and Lithuania

On 15 November, Foreign Minister Maris Riekstins will make his first visit to Estonia, and on 16 November he will visit Lithuania.

Foreign Minister discusses European Union's topical issues with Ambassador of Portugal

On 13 November, Foreign Minister Maris Riekstins met with João Luis Niza Pinheiro, Ambassador of Portugal who had arrived on an introductory visit.

89th proclamation day of Latvia's independence celebrated in Norway

On 13 November, a concert devoted to the proclamation day of the Republic of Latvia will take place at the Small Hall of the Oslo Concert Hall.

Support to Latvia – Hungary co-operation in visa issuance after accession to Shengen Treaty

On 13 November, the Cabinet of Ministers accepted the draft law "On the Agreement between the Government of the Republic of Latvia and the Government of the Republic of Hungary on the mutual representation by their diplomatic and consular missions abroad in processing visas and biometrical data".

Foreign Ministry to hold press conference at its renovated building

The Foreign Ministry will hold a press conference for representatives of the media in order provide information on its renovated building and the repair work done.

Embassy in China hosts reception to mark 89th anniversary of the proclamation of Latvia

On 14 November at the reception hall of the Novotel Peace Hotel in Beijing, the Embassy of Latvia in China will greet its colleagues and friends from foreign embassies in China, Chinese Government officials, media representatives as well as Latvians who reside in Beijing for professional, academic or tourism pursuits, in order to jointly celebrate the 89th anniversary of the proclamation of the Republic of Latvia.

Foreign Minister Maris Riekstins to advise on his work priorities for nearest weeks

Tomorrow, on 14 November at 1 p.m., Foreign Minister Maris Riekstins will hold a press briefing to inform media representatives on his work priorities for the nearest weeks.

German Foreign Minister congratulates Maris Riekstins on appointment

Foreign Minister Maris Riekstins has received a congratulatory letter from German Foreign Minister Dr Frank-Walter Steinmeier regarding his new appointment.

Latvian musicians to present a concert in Sri Lanka at celebration for 89th anniversary of Latvia's independence

With financial support of the Foreign Ministry, on 14 November, Latvian musicians Raimonds Tiguls, Janis Mednis, Intars Busulis, Kristaps Vanadzins, Anu Taul, Evija Tigule and Inga Stasko-Busule will travel to the Sri Lankan capital Colombo to present a series of concerts in honour of the celebration of the 89th anniversary of Latvia's independence.

Major conference to be held in Riga: The Baltic States and the EU Neighbourhood Policy

A high-level international conference entitled The Baltic States and the EU Neighbourhood Policy is to take place in Riga on 23 November. The conference is being organised by the Latvian Foreign Ministry and the Baltic Assembly in collaboration with the European Commission representation in Latvia.

Ministry State Secretary invites Ambassador to ease travel restrictions for Latvian nationals to Philippines

On 14 November, State Secretary Normans Penke of the Foreign Ministry met with the Philippines Ambassador to Latvia, Maria Zeneida Angara Collinson, who is in Latvia on her accreditation visit. 

Bank of Estonia Museum in Tallinn hosts exhibition on history of money in Latvia

On 15 November, with support from the Foreign Ministry and the Embassy of Latvia, a representative exhibition Money in Latvia: History and Contemporaneity prepared by the Bank of Latvia and the National Historic Museum of Latvia will be opened at the Eesti Pank Museum (Eesti Panga muuseum).

89th proclamation day of Republic of Latvia celebrated in Portugal

On 14 November, the Latvian Ambassador to Portugal, Artis Bertulis, will host the Latvian national day celebration reception. It will take place at the Condes D'Obidos castle in Lisbon. The Latvian chamber ensemble Altera Veritas will perform at the reception.

Maris Riekstins discusses topical issues in bilateral co-operation with German ambassador

On 14 November, Foreign Minister Maris Riekstins received Eberhard Schuppius, Ambassador of Germany on his introductory visit.

Works by Peruvian artist travel to Riga

On Thursday 15 November, the opening of an exhibition by the young and already noted Peruvian artist Joselito Savogal entitled Velmju pavelnieks (El Maestro de Deseos) will take place in the foyer of the Riga City Council at 16.30. The exposition with 35 paintings will be on view until 30 November.

Celebration in St. Petersburg of 89th Anniversary of Latvia's independence

To mark the 89th Anniversary of the proclamation of Latvia, the Latvian Consul General in St. Petersburg, Iveta Sers, will host a reception at the Consulate General for the Latvian community of St. Petersburg: students, entrepreneurs related to Latvia as well as the Latvian Association.

Embassy in Moscow celebrates 89th Anniversary of proclamation of Latvia

On 16th November at the Stanislavski and Nemirovich-Danchenko Theatre, the Embassy of Latvia in the Russian Federation will host an official reception devoted to the 89th National anniversary celebration of Latvia.

Exhibition History of State of Latvia in Cartoons opened at Netherlands National Library

The opening at the National Library of the Netherlands of the exhibition entitled The History of the State of Latvia in Cartoons marks the 89th Anniversary of the proclamation of the Republic of Latvia.

State Choir Latvija performs in Antwerp on eve of Latvian National holiday

On 15 November, on the eve of the 89th anniversary of the Republic of Latvia, the State Choir Latvija, conducted by Maris Sirmais, the choir's artistic director and chief conductor, will perform in Antwerp's deSingel hall, one of the most famed concert halls in Flanders, together with the Tallinn Philharmonic Chamber orchestra and its Estonian conductor Andres Mustonen.

Embassy in Greece to host reception devoted to proclamation of Latvia

On 16 November in Athens, Liga Bergmane, Ambassador of Latvia to Greece will host a reception for the Latvian community residing and working in Greece, to celebrate the 89th Anniversary of the Proclamation of the Republic of Latvia.

89th Anniversary of proclamation of Latvia marked in Georgia

On 15 November in Tbilisi, the opening of the exhibition entitled Georgia - Latvia: Yesterday, today and tomorrow will mark the 89th Anniversary of the proclamation of the Republic of Latvia.

89th Anniversary of proclamation of Latvia marked in Belarus

On 15 November in Minsk, Maira Mora, Ambassador of Latvia to Belarus, Mara Lace, Director of the Latvian National Art Museum and Vladimirs Prokopcovs, Director of the Belarus National Art Museum will open an exhibition of paintings from the Latvian National Art Museum, entitled Landscape and still life. Latvian 20th Century painting.

Latvian Embassy in Sweden marks National celebration to accompaniment of Clarinet Quartet of National Armed Forces Staff Orchestra

On 15 November in Stockholm, the celebration of the 89th anniversary of the proclamation of the Republic of Latvia will take place at Munchenbryggeriet; this is the building with the most beautiful view in the city – on Lake Malaren and the Stockholm City Hall.

89th Anniversary of proclamation of Latvia marked in Canada

On 11 November, Margers Krams, Ambassador of Latvia to Canada, participated and presented an address on Crosscutting issues in Latvian and Candian foreign affairs at the celebrations of Latvia's proclamation anniversary in the Evangelical Lutheran church in Hamilton.

Latvian Embassy in U.S. hosts lecture on community values

In Washington, the Latvian Embassy in the U.S.A. will host a lecture by Reverend Juris Rubenis on The Right to be Here: Thoughts About Imperfection, which Juris Rubenis has devised as an insight into Latvia's history, its culture, values and various aspects of Christianity.

Latvia-Israel political consultations held

On 13 November, the next round of political consultations took place in Jerusalem between the Foreign Ministries of Latvia and Israel.

Choir Kamer

Marking the 89th anniversary of the proclamation of the Republic of Latvia, on 19 and 20 November, the youth choir Kamer

Exhibition by Latvian photographer Alnis Stakle opens in Moscow

On 15 November, in the contemporary art centre Vinzavod, one of the best-known exhibition complexes in Moscow, the official opening took place of an exhibition by Latvian photographer Alnis Stakle, who attended the event and addressed the guests.

89th Anniversary of proclamation of Republic of Latvia celebrated in Finland

This year, the traditional reception in Helsinki to honour Latvia's Independence Day is being held on 20 November. Invited to the reception, which is being hosted by Ambassador Einars Semanis, are representatives of Finland's state and municipal governments, diplomats, representatives of cultural, press and fellowship associations, and Latvian citizens resident in Finland.

89th Anniversary of proclamation of Republic of Latvia celebrated in Azerbaijan

Marking the 89th anniversary of the proclamation of Latvia's independence, the Latvian Embassy in Azerbaijan is hosting a ceremonial reception in Baku on 23 November.

Foreign Ministry extends condolences with regard to Bangladesh cyclone victims

The acting Foreign Minister, Culture Minister Helena Demakova, has conveyed her sincerest condolences to the people of Bangladesh, forwarding a letter of condolences to the Bangladeshi Adviser for Foreign Affairs, Dr Iftekhar Ahmed Chowdhury, in relation to the devastating Cyclone Sidr.

89th Anniversary of proclamation of the Republic of Latvia widely celebrated in Moscow

On 16th November at the Stanislavski and Nemirovich-Danchenko Theatre, the Embassy of Latvia in the Russian Federation will host an official reception devoted to the 89th National anniversary celebration of Latvia.

Foreign Minister to take part at reception hosted by Embassy in France to mark 89th anniversary of Latvia's proclamation

On 20 November at the premises of the Pavillon Dauphine, Foreign Minister Maris Riekstins will attend an official reception, hosted by the Embassy of Latvia in France, for representaives of the French poltical circles, the diplomatic corps, military attachés, entrepreneurs, friends oF Latvia and members of the Latvian community.

Embassy in Japan holds reception marking 89th anniversary of proclamation of Latvia's independence

On 16 November, the Latvian Embassy in Japan will host a reception at the Hotel Ocura Tokyo to mark the 89th anniversary of the proclamation of the Republic of Latvia. The guests invited include visible Japanese politicians, businessmen, representatives of the diplomatic corps residing in Tokyo, and Japan-based Latvians.

Co-operation in Baltic Sea Region - example of realisation of integrated sea policy

On 19 November, Foreign Minister Maris Riekstins took part in the meeting of the EU General Affairs and External Relations Council (GAERC) in Brussels.

Honorary Consulate opened in Karlskrona city in Southern Sweden

On 20 and 21 November, Elita Kuzma, the Latvian Ambassador in Sweden will make a working visit to the city of Karlskrona in Southern Sweden in order to participate in the opening of the Honorary Consulate of Latvia in Blekinge County and related events in Karlskrona.

Draft regulations on issue of diplomatic and service passports complying with EU requirements receive backing

On 20 November, draft regulations of the Cabinet of Ministers Amendments to the Cabinet of Ministers regulations No. 307 of 16 July 2002 "Regulations on service passports of the Republic of Latvia" and Amendments to the Cabinet of Ministers regulations No. 85 of 30 January 2007 "Regulations on diplomatic passports of the Republic of Latvia" received support.

New Riga Theatre repeatedly gains success in Finland

Latvian theatre is being widely promoted reflecting its many manifestations at the international theatre festival Baltic Circle taking place in Helsinki from 16 to 24 November.

New Latvian Defence Attaché takes up office in Greece

On 20 November, the Latvian Defence Attaché to Greece, Lt Col Andris Kalnins met with several Greek military officials as part of his accreditation visit. Also participating in the meeting was the Latvian Ambassador to Greece, Liga Bergmane, together with the former Latvian Defence Attaché to Greece, Colonel Janis Hofmanis.

Foreign Ministry hosts seminar on sustainable development in the State

On 20 November, the Foreign Ministry's Ambassador at Large, Rolands Lappuke, in co-operation with the director of the Millennium Institute, Hans Herren, organised a seminar, the purpose of which was to familiarise representatives of Latvia's sector ministries, academics, and other officials involved in the planning of long-term development, with research studies in sustainable development offered by the Millennium Institute.

Latvian Embassy in Warsaw hosts launch for book on Baltic ethnic heritage

On 20 November, in the Lithuanian Cultural Centre in Warsaw, the official book launch took place for the book Baltic Ethnic Heritage by Tadeusz Zubinski which was published by the Association Polish house Sarmacja. The book discusses Latvian, Lithuanian and ancient Prussian beliefs, traditions and customs; widely utilised in the work are research studies by ethnologists Janina Kursite, Peteris Smits, Norbertas Velius, Marija Gimbutas and others.

Latvia participates in EU-ASEAN jubilee summit

From 21–22 November, Singapore will be the venue for the EU-ASEAN Summit which this year commemorates the 30th anniversary of the establishment of relations between the EU and the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN). Latvia is being represented at the event by Eriks Zunda, the Foreign Ministry Parliamentary Secretary.

Maris Riekstins expresses gratitude to France for its support to represent Latvia in issuing Schengen visas in Yerevan

On 20 November during his working visit to France, Foreign Minister Maris Riekstins met with Jean-Pierre Jouyet, Minister of State, responsible for European Affairs, and Jean-David Levitte, Diplomatic Advisor to the President of France.

Project Balticness makes stop-over in Helsinki

On 23 November, the travelling project Balticness organised by the Latvian presidency at the Council of the Baltic Sea States (CBSS) will make a stop in Helsinki.

Introducing international conference, Foreign Minister to open young designers' exhibition Winter Fireflies

Today, on 22 November at the Riga Design and Art School (RDAS), Foreign Minister Maris Riekstins will open an international design exhibition Winter Fireflies. It is the introduction for the conference on "The Baltic States and the EU Neighbourhood Policy" organised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) and the Baltic Assembly, and scheduled for 23 November.

Agreement signed with Hungary on representation in issuing Schengen visas

On 22 November, during the working visit to Latvia by H.E. Ferenc Gyurcsány, Prime Minister of Hungary, an agreement was signed between the Government of the Republic of Latvia and the Government of the Republic of Hungary on the mutual representation by their diplomatic and consular missions in issuing visas and processing biometrical data.

Foreign Minister encourages European Union neighbouring states to take advantage of opportunities offered by the European Neighbourhood Policy

On 23 November, Foreign Minister Maris Riekstins together with Erika Zommere, President of the Baltic Assembly, opened the 13th session of the Baltic Council and an international high-level conference The Baltic States and the EU Neighbourhood Policy.

Maris Riekstins and Azerbaijani Foreign Minister emphasize need for more active EU neighbourhood policy

On 23 November, Foreign Minister Maris Riekstins met with Elmar Mammadyarov, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Azerbaijan.

Latvian contemporary art exhibition Ruckblick nach Vorn to be opened in Siegburg

On Saturday 24 November, a Latvian contemporary art exhibition entitled Ruckblick nach Vorn will be opened in Siegburg.

Foreign Ministry comment for media on possible visit to Latvia by representative delegation of Council of Europe Congress of Local and Regional Authorities

On 19 November, in Strasbourg, the Bureau of the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe made the decision to send a mission in the near future to familiarise itself with the situation in Latvia.

Opinions surfaced at conference The Baltic States and the EU Neighbourhood Policy to allow further enhancement of European Neighbourhood Policy

The high-level international conference on The Baltic States and the EU Neighbourhood Policy that took place on 23 November during the annual Baltic Council and session of the Baltic Assembly has come to its close.

Edgars Skuja and Hardijs Baumanis awarded medals for outstanding service in upholding the unity of the Baltic states

On 24 November in Riga, at the Reval Hotel Latvija, Edgars Skuja, Under-Secretary of State for bilateral relations at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Latvia, former Ambassador of Latvia to Estonia and Hardijs Baumanis, present Ambassador of Latvia to Lithuania, were awarded the medals of the Baltic Assembly (BA) for outstanding service in upholding the unity and co-operation of the Baltic states.

Latvia supports international Mid-East peace conference in U.S.

Latvia supports the international Middle East peace conference to be held on the initiative of U.S. President George Bush on 27 November in Annapolis, Maryland. The aim of the event is to provide a new opportunity for the commencement of Israeli-Palestinian bilateral negotiations on the establishment of a Palestinian state.

UN Committee against Torture publicises recommendations to Latvia on implementation of Convention against Torture

On 23 November, the Committee against Torture of the United Nations Organization (UN) publicised its conclusions and recommendations to Latvia with regard to the implementation of the Convention against Torture. The Committee expressed its appreciation of the quality of the periodic report presented by Latvia and of the additional information provided, and noted with satisfaction the constructive dialogue with the Latvian delegation during the presentation of the report.

Foreign Minister's comment to media with regard to opposition arrests in Russia

Foreign Minister Maris Riekstins, in reply to media inquiries, has expressed his deep concern about the events in Russia over the weekend, during which opposition activists were detained.

Ambassador to Sweden Elita Kuzma takes part in opening of Latvia's Honorary Consulate in Halmstad

On 27 November, Elita Kuzma, Ambassador to Sweden, will participate at the opening of the Honorary Consulate of Latvia in the city of Halmstad, in Sweden's southwerstern län of Halland.

Maris Riekstins and Czech Ambassador discuss topical issues of bilateral relations

On 27 November, Dr. Tomáš Pštross, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Czech Republic to Latvia, arrived on an introductory visit to Foreign Minister Maris Riekstins.

Fourth Latvian Honorary Consulate opened in Spain

A new Honorary Consulate of Latvia is to be opened on 28 November in Barcelona, Spain. The Consulate's official opening ceremony will be held together with the 18 November celebrations at the Maritime Museum. Invited to the reception are politicians, representatives of the diplomatic corps, economists, representatives of the cultural community, as well as from the Latvian society in Barcelona.

CIS regional communities to be briefed on Latvia's accession to Schengen Treaty

On 29 November at the Minsk Hotel in Minsk, Belarus, the first briefing will be held for CIS regional media, tourism companies and tour operators with regard to the planned 21 December accession by Latvia to the Schengen Treaty.

Foreign Minister Maris Riekstins takes part in meeting of OSCE Ministerial Council

On 29-30 November, Foreign Minister Maris Riekstins will participate at the 15th Meeting of the Ministerial Council of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) in Madrid, the Kingdom of Spain. The meeting agenda includes the review and assessment of this year's OSCE activities in the human dimension, as well as in the politico-military and the economic and environmental fields.

Ambassador Karlis Eihenbaums at World Congress of Latvian Jews underscores successful Latvian- Israeli co-operation

On 27 November in Tel Aviv, Israel, the Fifth World Congress of Latvian Jews was opened. The event will continue until 2 December.

Normans Penke and Algerian Ambassador agree to reinforce economic co-operation between their countries

On 27 November, Foreign Ministry Secretary of State Normans Penke met with Abdel Aziz Lahiouel, the first Algerian Ambassador to Latvia. The Ambassador is resident in Warsaw, Poland.

Latvian film Vogelfrei to be screened in Canada

On 29 November in Ottawa, the European Union Film Festival will showcase the Latvian feature film Vogelfrei, but on 3 December the joint production by young Latvian directors will be offered to Vancouver cinema connoisseurs with support from Cedric Steel, Honorary Consul of Latvia in British Columbia.