State Secretary takes part in President's first visit to U.S.

From 22 to 25 April Foreign Ministry State Secretary Normans Penke is in Washington, where he is taking part in the visit by President Valdis Zatlers to the U.S.   

The visit will include the first official meetings of President Zatlers with senior officials of the U.S. administration: Vice President Dick Cheney, Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, Secretary of Defence Robert Gates, as well as with congressmen and senators.  

During the meetings the officials will look at current issues in security policy, the results of the NATO summit in Bucharest, co-operation in the energy sector, and trade. They will also share views on the latest developments and co-operation projects in EU neighbouring states. It is anticipated that at the talks Latvia will emphasise its readiness to join the U.S. Visa Waiver Programme and to ensure full reciprocity, at the same time appreciating the support of the partners of the U.S. in expanding the program. 

The Ministry values the existing active and frequent political dialogue with the U.S., and is seeking to advance it further.

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