On Wednesday, January 27, on the occasion of the International Holocaust Remembrance Day, the introductory words of Prime Minister Laimdota Straujuma were presented at the launch of the book "Beyond this Gate Moans the Earth: Salaspils Camp 1941-1944" held at the Latvian War Museum.
In her address, the Prime Minister says that "the Holocaust is a disaster for Latvia - our country and the people - as well as for the whole of Europe; therefore the remembrance and research of the Holocaust is an important task in order to realize the enormous tragedy that has hit us too". "The study and research of history are of tremendous importance in building awareness of our society," emphasizes L.Straujuma.
Congratulating the outstanding Latvian historians on the opening of the long awaited book, the Prime Minister expresses the hope that "this comprehensive study will help eradicate the lies and myths that were basically created during the Soviet occupation, and which are being multiplied by those who do not value the truth. The truth is the power, and we all need to know the truth. Through the truth, integrity and an open and fair vision we are becoming stronger every moment".
The book has been published by "Lauku Avīze" in cooperation with the Salaspils local government and the Latvian Foundation. The monograph by historians Kārlis Kangers, Uldis Neiburgs and Rudīte Vīksne describes the establishment, administration, inmates, as well as liquidation of the Salaspils camp. The voluminous and comprehensive historical sources – documents, memoires and photographs – enable each reader to explore the events of the time.
For more detailed information:
Aiva Rozenberga
Press Secretary to the Prime Minister
Mob: +371 29462451
E-mail: aiva.rozenberga@mk.gov.lv