Year 2006 is historical in the relations between Latvia and the UK. The Latvian President, Vaira Vike-Freiberga, was on a state visit to the UK on 9 to 13 July as a Guest of Her Majesty's Government. The Queen of the United Kingdom, Her Majesty Queen Elisabeth II will arrive on a state visit to Latvia in October for the first time.
Likewise the relations between Latvia and the United Kingdom have historically been close and have continued to develop fruitfully in view of the common aim of a united, economically and politically stable Europe. The mutual interest in promoting bilateral cooperation is facilitated by the membership of both countries in the European Union and NATO. The UK's political and practical support to Latvia's integration into the EU has served to broaden the scope of relations in the fields of public administration reform, enhancement of the education system, society integration process, justice and home affairs. The UK has significantly contributed to Latvia's integration into NATO by providing support for the implementation of bilateral and multilateral projects in the defence sector. The United Kingdom is also a significant trade partner of Latvia.
The current Latvian Ambassador to the UK Mr. Indulis Berzins accredited on 17 March 2005. The current Ambassador of the UK to Latvia is Mr. Ian Bond, accredited on 26 April 2005.
After the restoration of Latvia's independence, the first Ambassador of Latvia to the UK Mr. Janis Lusis was accredited in 1992.
As of March 2002, Latvia has an Honorary Consul in Wales – Mr. Andris Taurins. As of November 2004, Latvia's Honorary Consul in Manchester is Mr. Howard James Pym.
Parliamentary cooperation
There is a close co-operation between parliaments of both countries. Latvia-UK parliamentary cooperation group, headed by Mr. Viesturs Silins, continues its work under the 8th Saeima. In 2005, a UK-Latvia cooperation group was re-established in the British Parliament. Mr. Bruce George chairs the group, and his deputies are Mr. Nick Hawkins and Mr. John Austin.
For the information on cooperation in the defence area please see Military cooperation.
