On Saturday, November 5, Prime Minister Māris Kučinskis met with the Prime Minister of Czech Republic, Bohuslav Sobotka. During the meeting, they discussed issues affecting relations between the two countries, security issues, and the situation in Europe.
Mr Kučinskis expressed his satisfaction about the increased turnover of commodity trade between the countries and also pointed out that Latvia sees potential for the expansion of trade, including food industry products, pharmaceutical products and the timber industry. "There is still untapped potential for the export of niche products with high added value, as well as cooperation in the information technology and startup sector," said Mr. Kučinskis.
The positive fact that Charles University in Prague and Masaryk University in Brno are teaching Latvian language was mentioned, as well as the possibility to learn the Czech language at the University of Latvia.
Speaking about the situation in Europe, Mr. Kučinskis stressed that the focus should be on measures and ideas that would restore public support and confidence in the European Union and promote the EU's security, socio-economic development and global competitiveness.
"We highly value the willingness of NATO allies to send their soldiers and military equipment to the Baltic States during various international military exercises and as part of NATO battle groups. This demonstrates to Russia that the alliance is united. We appreciate the Czech Republic's readiness to rotate their forces within the framework of The Visegrad Group," said Mr Kučinskis.
It was also stressed that, due to Russia's actions, the security situation in our region remains unpredictable; therefore it is very important to work towards rapid implementation of the decisions adopted at the NATO Summit in Warsaw.
The Prime Minister of the Czech Republic, B. Sobotka is visiting Latvia within the framework of the 16 + 1 Summit in Riga.
Additional information:
Andrejs Vaivars
Prime Minister's Press Secretary
Phone: 29228678
E-mail: Andrejs.Vaivars@mk.gov.lv