Foreign Minister Maris Riekstins voices concern over situation in Kyrgyzstan [08 Apr 2010]

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Foreign Minister Maris Riekstins voices concern over the development of situation during the past two days in the Republic of Kyrgyzstan where political protests have turned into violence that has resulted in injuries and loss of lives.

"I believe that violence is not justified in any situation. Such forms of protest are incompatible with principles of democracy. At the same time, the task of the government is to restore legal order in the country through means stipulated in the legislation," Foreign Minister Riekstins emphasizes. "The potential for a dialogue between the government and the opposition is by no means exhausted, and I call upon both sides to make maximum use of that," the Latvian Foreign Minister notes in addition.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Latvia within the limits of its capacity has assessed the situation of the Latvian nationals staying in the Republic of Kyrgyzstan, and their security is not currently in danger. "Should anyone have information on their family members or friends who might find themselves in the areas affected by the unrest in Kyrgyzstan, I urge them to contact the staff in charge at the Foreign Ministry Consular Department by calling to the emergency service phone 29287398. I also invite everybody interested to follow the information on the Foreign Ministry website regarding warnings to travellers and to make use of the Consular Register which would effectively allow locating any Latvian national in crisis situations," Foreign Minister Riekstins indicates.

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