On 20 May 2020, the State Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Latvia, Andris Pelšs, and the State Secretary of the Federal Foreign Office of Germany, Miguel Berger, met in a videoconference for a discussion on bilateral cooperation and topics high on the European Union (EU) and international agendas. Andris Pelšs congratulated his counterpart on assuming the post and wished him an intensive time in office, rich in joint projects.
The officials were unanimous that Latvia and Germany have established a close and intensive political dialogue and excellent contacts in economy, culture and education. The Latvian State Secretary noted that there is potential for expanding cooperation in the areas such as development of new technologies and innovations. Andris Pelšs thanked Germany for its substantial contribution to the strengthening security in the Baltic region, and he praised the joint efforts of bringing Latvian nationals back home from Germany and other countries amid the COVID-19 crisis.
The State Secretaries then discussed the effectiveness of measures to contain the COVID-19 pandemic, and the strategy for removing restrictions. He underlined that EU solidarity and unity is of special importance in these times. The diplomats noted that it was vital to agree as soon as possible on an ambitious EU’s Multiannual Financial Framework and a Recovery Fund to jointly support the recovery of Member State economies
Andris Pelšs pointed out that the pandemic has affected the EU’s agenda and Germany, as it takes over Presidency of the Council of the EU midway through this year, will have to face a number of serious challenges. The Latvian Foreign Ministry’s State Secretary wished Germany a successful presidency period and confirmed that Latvia will support Germany in its endeavours.