“Latvia is developing its defence capabilities decisively and is preparing for an even broader admission of NATO allied forces to its territory in order to jointly protect every centimetre of NATO’s territory,” emphasised the Latvian Prime Minister Evika Siliņa after the meeting with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg on Wednesday 27 September.
The Prime Minister drew attention to the fact that it is the 581st day since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. This aggression against freedom and democracy must be actively resisted, said E. Siliņa.
“Latvia stands with Ukraine! Our military instructors train the Ukrainian forces, our medical institutions provide help to the injured Ukrainian soldiers, our families have opened their doors to war refugees from Ukraine. We have provided military and civilian support to Ukraine of 1.3 % of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP), and we will continue this support. We must collectively support Ukraine until its victory. In order to ensure long-term peace in Europe, Ukraine must also become a member of NATO. In addition, we will develop our defence and deterrence capabilities to protect every centimetre of the Alliance’s territory," said E. Siliņa after the meeting with NATO Secretary General.
According to the Prime Minister, NATO’s new regional defence plans and the increased presence of allies in the eastern flank confirm the joint commitment of the members of the Alliance to build an even stronger NATO. The Prime Minister expressed gratitude to all nations whose soldiers are part of the multinational battle group located in Latvia, and emphasised that highly appreciates Canada’s commitment to deploy additional troops and armaments in Latvia, as well as the Denmark's decision to deploy a battle troop in Latvia. She also extended personal gratitude to NATO Secretary General J. Stoltenberg for his strong leadership in leading the NATO alliance during this turbulent time.
Latvia fulfils its NATO commitments and intends to further increase its defence capabilities, emphasised E. Siliņa. She pointed out that Latvia’s investment in defence will amount to 3 % of GDP by 2027. “We will continue to invest in our national defence capabilities, including by purchasing new weapons systems. We will continue to invest in new infrastructure to host the forces of our allies," said E. Siliņa.
The Prime Minister also pointed out that Latvia and its soldiers will continue to support NATO peacekeeping mission in Kosovo, thus contributing to the common security of Europe.
On Wednesday 27 September, Prime Minister E. Siliņa is paying a working visit to Brussels, where she meets with President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen and NATO Secretary General J. Stoltenberg.
