Address of H.E. Māris Riekstiņš, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Latvia at the opening of the book: "Latvia and the USA: From Captive Nation to Strategic Partner", University of Latvia, Faculty of Social Sciences, Riga, January 14, 2009 [14 Jan 2009]

Excellencies,

Ladies and gentlemen,

Today it is my honor to participate in the opening of the first ever written and published research of the historical relations between Latvia and the United States – a book entitled "Latvia and the USA: From Captive Nation to Strategic Partner."

First of all, I would like to extend my gratitude to the authors and contributors of the book, to the editor Mr Daunis Auers, the University of Latvia and to all those who have shared their personal, as well as professional knowledge of various aspects characterizing the bilateral links between Latvia and its strategic and very special partner – the United States.

My particular thanks goes to both Embassies – US Embassy in Riga and Latvian Embassy in Washington, DC for their devotion to strengthening of our bilateral relations and initiative in implementing the idea of a book that serves as an additional source of information for those, who want to have a wider perspective on the history of US - Latvian relations.

Apart from that, this is a truly remarkable occasion for Ambassador Larson, who in a couple of days will return to Washington after an intense term of duty in Latvia, characterized by opening of a new gateway of closer relations – visa free travel for Latvian citizens to the United States. Ambassador Larson – my special thanks for your enthusiasm and mutual trust!

Ladies and gentlemen,

I believe I can say with confidence that the ones gathered here today are those whom we can call both friends of Latvia and friends of the United States.  Partnership and friendship is characterized by looking together in one direction. In US -Latvian relations this has been one shared direction of common values, principles and aspirations.

At the same time, I have to admit that there have been ups and downs in our relations. In the 1930ies Latvia was seriously considering the closure of its representation in Washington, DC, due to financial constraints, but we kept our mission all through the Soviet years, characterized by the special US non-recognition policy of Soviet occupation. In 1991 the United States were not among the first to recognize the regaining of our independence. However, after the early 90ties we experienced a rapid evolution of our bilateral relations embodied also in the historic cornerstone document - the US-Baltic Charter. Visits are just one part of relationship, but nevertheless I am glad to mention the fact that two US presidents have visited Latvia during years of our regained independence.

Some have wondered how Latvia has managed to pave its way inside the Beltway and up the Hill, as it is common to say in Washington, DC. In this regard, I have to mention also the exile Latvians in the United States, who among others have been devoted Baltic lobbyists. Their role cannot be underestimated.

On a more personal note and characterizing the openness and friendliness in our special relations with the United States – I have in my vivid memory the negotiation process for the Baltic Charter in the State Department. We were sitting with Ronald Asmus not across the table, but beside each other and looking in the thesaurus for the right words to define our strategic partnership. In the end we reached an agreement on the United States having 'a real, profound and enduring interest' in the Baltic States.

Thus, to conclude, I can sincerely wish to have the enduring interest continue on both sides. On my behalf, this wish is and will be supported by determined action for the benefit of mutual interest.

Thank you!