On Wednesday 2 February, Prime Minister Krišjānis Kariņš met with Anita Anand, Minister of National Defence of Canada, to discuss the security situation in the region and cooperation between Latvia and Canada in the field of defence. Canada is leading the NATO’s Enhanced Forward Presence Battalion in Latvia.
"Latvia highly appreciates Canada’s contribution to strengthening defence capabilities of Latvia. Our Armed Forces have established a very successful cooperation with the Canadian Army, and it has substantially enhanced Latvia’s defence and deterrence capabilities," stressed the Prime Minister by pointing out that Latvia is interested that Canada further leads the NATO’s Extended Presence Battle Group in Latvia.
With regard to the security situation in the region, K. Kariņš said that the international community must provide every possible support and assistance to Ukraine, both politically and practically. According to the Prime Minister, Latvia strongly supports Ukraine and provides assistance, including in the military field. “Russia’s aggressive policy towards Ukraine and its ultimatums to the United States and NATO are unacceptable. The European Union and the Allies must be prepared for different scenarios, to respond quickly and apply severe sanctions accordingly," said K. Kariņš.
The Prime Minister also informed that, in the near future, Latvia plans to decide on the sending of Latvian soldiers - instructors to Ukraine. They will be involved in the Canadian-led operation UNIFIER aimed at developing capabilities of the Ukrainian armed forces.
