On Friday 29 April, Prime Minister Māris Kučinskis met Angela Merkel, Chancellor of the Federal Republic of Germany in Berlin.
During the meeting, M. Kučinskis highlighted the close bilateral cooperation with Germany by pointing out that Latvia appreciates the active political dialogue and Germany’s support for Latvia in defense, economy and education, as well as in other fields. This year marks the 95th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations and 25 years since their restoration after Latvia regained its independence.
Germany has been a major strategic partner of Latvia in Europe since the restoration of independence. The two heads of state agreed that cooperation in the field of dual education and strategic communication is already bearing fruit. Germany is the third largest trading partner of Latvia, and the economic cooperation has the potential for growth.
At the meeting, much attention was paid to security issues including the upcoming Warsaw NATO Summit. M. Kučinskis expressed gratitude to Germany for the support provided so far to strengthen security in the region and called on Germany to increase its involvement in the Baltic States. M. Kučinskis stressed that the cooperation between Germany and the Baltic States is a guarantee of stability in the whole region.
As previously announced, from April 28-29, M. Kučinskis is paying a working visit to Germany.
Within the framework of the visit, the Prime Minsiter had a meeting with A. Merkel and the Prime Minister of Lower Saxony, attended the Hannover Messe, participated in a panel discussion on the importance of start-ups for economic growth, and held a meeting with the German and Latvian entrepreneurs.
Andrejs Vaivars
Press Secretary to the Prime Minister
Phone: 29228678
E-mail: Andrejs.Vaivars@mk.gov.lv