Weekly Summary of News in Latvia CURRENT LATVIA 17 June - 1 July 2005 Wk. 26 - 27/2005 (613/614)

FOREIGN POLICY EVENTS AND CHRONOLOGY

19 - 21 June 2005	The President of the Swiss Confederation, Samuel Schmid, arrived in Latvia on a state visit to meet with the President of Latvia, Prime Minister, Vice Speaker of the Saeima, officials of the Riga City Council and business people seeking for further and closer cooperation between both countries. This was the first visit of the President of the Swiss Confederation to Latvia after the restoration of Latvia's independence, and the visit took place at a time when the economic and political relations of Latvia and Switzerland had become closer following Latvia's accession to the European Union (EU). Addressing the Swiss-Latvian Roundtable The Economic Development of Latvia: Opportunities for Swiss-Latvian Business, the President of Latvia, Vaira Vike-Freiberga, concluded that both countries were interested in cooperating in the traditional areas as well as modern technologies and tourism. The President also pointed to the mutual desire of both countries to contribute to the welfare, security and stability of Europe as good grounds for expanding the economic relations. On June 20, Samuel Schmid, President of the Swiss Confederation, met with Aigars Kalvitis, Prime Minister of the Republic of Latvia. The focus of the meeting was on the further development of economic cooperation. The President was accompanied by a large delegation of Swiss businessmen representing various sectors including banking, modern technologies, pharmacy, and others, aiming to establish new contacts with the Latvian side and find out more specifically about the business opportunities in Latvia. Aigars Kalvitis informed Samuel Schmid about the latest developments in the EU and the results of the June Summit with regard to the EU Constitutional Treaty and the Financial Perspective for 2007-2013.  The Prime Minister also appealed to the President of the Swiss Confederation for support for Latvia's accession to the Organization for European Co-operation  and Development. On 21 June, during the meeting with the Minister of Defence, Einars Repse, State Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Edgars Rinkevics and the National Armed Forces Commander Vice Admiral, Gaidis Andrejs Zeibots, the sides discussed the bilateral cooperation in the area of defence. In the course of the talks the Latvian Minister of Defence praised highly Switzerland's long-term experience related to the introduction and development of the defence system.  The meeting also focused on issues concerning action in extraordinary and force majeure situations and the role of the armed forces in eliminating the consequences of such situations. The Swiss President also voiced interest in Latvia's experience in integrating into NATO as well as participation in international   operations, preparatory measures, strategies and elaboration of development plans. Address by Dr. Vaira Vike-Freiberga, President of Latvia, at the Swiss – Latvian Roundtable "The Economic Development of Latvia: Opportunities for Swiss – Latvian Business". President's Chancery (20.06.2005); The Cabinet of Ministers (20.06.2005); Ministry of Defence (21.06.2005).
20 - 21 June 2005	Foreign Minister of the Kingdom of Norway, Jan Petersen, paid a working visit to Latvia to meet with the President of Latvia, Vaira Vike-Freiberga, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Artis Pabriks and the Speaker of the Saeima, Ingrida Udre. The officials discussed issues related to the future of the EU, EU-Russia cooperation, UN reform, as well as the issues of the 20th century history. During the meeting with the President of Latvia, the Foreign Minister of the Kingdom of Norway, Jan Petersen, was presented with the Three-Star Order for his contribution in promoting Latvia's integration into NATO. Both sides pointed out with satisfaction that Latvia and Norway were linked through close cooperation at the political, economic and cultural levels.  The Norwegian Minister of Foreign Affairs praised Latvia highly for its fast development and successful integration with focus on the issues related to Europe's security and development. On the UN reform, the President of Latvia urged Norway to date with regard to the UN reform.  The Norwegian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Jan Petersen, emphasised the need to reform the Human Rights Committee as one of the most significant tasks in this respect. The President of Latvia congratulated Norway on its 100th anniversary wishing the country and its inhabitants welfare and further development on behalf of the whole Latvia. During the meeting with the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Artis Pabriks, the sides discussed the bilateral relations with special emphasis on the European Economic Area and implementation of Norway's bilateral financial instrument in Latvia, and security policy issues. Support to Latvia's accession to the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development was voiced. During the meeting with the Speaker of the Saeima, Ingrida Udre, the sides discussed the domestic policy situation in Latvia and Norway and the inter-parliamentary cooperation. The Speaker of the Saeima, Ingrida Udre, praised highly the Baltic-Nordic parliamentary cooperation, emphasizing the role of regional development. The Speaker of the Saeima noted that the Saeima also took active part in the implementation of the EU neighbourhood policy sharing experience and knowledge with other countries such as the Ukraine, Moldova and Georgia. President's Chancery (21.06.2005); Ministry of Foreign Affairs (22.06.2005); The Saeima (21.06.2005).
21 - 22 June 2005	Minister of Foreign Affairs, Artis Pabriks, participated in an international conference in Brussels, Belgium, on current issues regarding Iraq's reconstruction, especially with respect to strengthening of international support to the Iraqi interim government. The conference dealt with the internal policy processes, possibilities for Iraq's economic development and the process of reconstruction, as well as specific assistance projects, for example, the involvement of Iraqi civil society in the political processes, improvement of the educational system, and reconstruction of infrastructure. In his address to the delegates, Foreign Minister Pabriks spoke about the political and security situation in Iraq and about Latvia's political support to the process of Iraq's transformation, stressing the need for the international community to engage actively in various assistance programmes. The Minister confirmed Latvia's readiness to continue its participation in the multinational force in Iraq and in bilateral assistance programmes. Artis Pabriks informed the participants of the conference about the assistance already rendered to the Iraqi force. Address by Dr. Artis Pabriks, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Latvia, at an International Conference on Iraq, Brussels, 22 June 2005. Ministry of Foreign Affairs (22.06.2005).
27 - 28 June 2005	Following the invitation of the President of Italy, the President of Latvia, accompanied by several ministers, representatives of state institutions and businessmen, paid a state visit to Italy.  In Rome, the President of Latvia furthered the political dialogue with the Italian officials on bilateral issues and common challenges in Europe. The President also strengthened the contacts between Naples and Latvia emphasising the role of consuls in terms of strengthening the cooperation. On 27 June, the President of Latvia, Vaira Vike-Freiberga, met with the President of Italy, Carlo Azeglio Ciampi, in Rome stressing that this – the second visit of the President of Latvia to Italy was taking place in a new status, as both countries were now members of the European Union. The President also expressed the hope that greater dynamics would be achieved with this new level of relations between Latvia and Italy. Both Presidents discussed issues related to the future of Europe, the European Monetary Union, and the ratification of the EU Constitutional Treaty.  The President of Latvia, Vaira Vike-Freiberga, noted that these issues would be the ones to be dealt with by the UK Presidency starting in July. Vaira Vike-Freiberga indicated that the new EU member states hoped that the action of the United Kingdom would benefit the overall competitiveness of Europe as well as the development of the new member states. The President of Italy congratulated the President of Latvia on the fact that Latvia, like Italy, had ratified the Constitutional Treaty and was approaching the membership in the euro zone. During the meeting the Presidents also touched upon the European security policy. The state leaders expressed satisfaction with the bilateral contacts in the military area between Latvia and Italy. During the meeting the Presidents mentioned that Riga was prepared to offer to host the next NATO summit. The President of Latvia and the heads of Italy dealt with further bilateral co-operation in economy, culture and various common European issues. On 28 June, the President of Latvia, Vaira Vike-Freiberga, delivered a speech at the Latvia-Italy Business Forum urging the Italian businessmen to enter into co-operation with Latvia. The President was accompanied by a delegation of about 50 Latvian businessmen with the aim to establish new contacts, learn from Italy's experience in dealing with business issues and attract Italy's investments. Several business forums were held in both Rome and Naples allowing the Latvian business people to meet with their Italian colleagues. On 28 June in Rome, the President of Latvia, Vaira Vike-Freiberga, met with the Italian Prime Minister, Silvio Berlusconi. During the meeting the sides focused on issues related to Europe's future, Latvia-Italy economic co-operation and international topics. The Italian Prime Minister also praised highly the pragmatic standpoint demonstrated by the new member states when holding discussions regarding the EU financial future. The same day, the President of Latvia also met with the Honorary Consuls to Italy and the Ambassador of the Republic of Latvia to Italy, Janis Lusis. During the meeting held in Rome, the President of Latvia spoke about Latvia's economic situation, prospects for development and various business projects that were aimed at Latvia's inclusion in the common European transport and infrastructure network and related to the exchange of cultural projects. On 29 June, the Consulate of the Republic of Latvia was officially opened in Naples. The President of Latvia also visited the Capri Island where she met with the officials of the local authorities and the mayor of Naples. On 30 July, the President of Latvia also visited the NATO base. During the meeting with the NATO base Commander Admiral Harry Ulrich, the officials discussed NATO operations in the Balkans, co-operation in the context of the Partnership for Peace programme, Latvia's contribution to NATO, as well as NATO's transformation process to face the challenges of today.  The Commander of the NATO base spoke highly of Latvia's contribution to the development of NATO and admitted Latvia to be a very active NATO member. On 30 June, the President of Latvia visited the Vatican and met with Pope Benedict XVI and the officials of Vatican. During the meeting, the Pope and the President discussed the current issues in Europe. The Pope wished growth, prosperity and God's blessing to Latvia. The Pope also praised highly the President's decision to attend the 9th of May celebration event in Moscow saying that he truly and deeply understood the explanation provided by the President in her letter to Pope John Paul II with regards to the consequences of World War II in Europe. At the conclusion of the meeting the President of Latvia invited the Pope to visit Latvia. President's Chancery (27.06.2005) (28.06.2005) (29.06.2005) (30.06.2005).
30 June 2005	The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Artis Pabriks, paid a working visit to Finland, meeting with the Finnish Minister of Foreign Affairs, Erkki Tuomioja. The ministers discussed the current issues of the EU. On the EU Constitutional Treaty, the ministers exchanged their views on the ratification process in the EU member states and agreed that heads of state should carefully analyse and consider the current situation without exaggerating the impact of this situation on the future development of the EU. The officials agreed that discussions on the EU financial perspective for 2007-2013 (budget for this period) indicated the different positions of the member states on the EU policy priorities and economic development models. The foreign ministers emphasized the need to proceed with the negotiations actively and come to an agreement on the EU budgetary issues during the UK presidency of the EU. The Latvian foreign minister and his Finnish colleague debated on the priorities of Finland's presidency of the EU in the second half of 2006. Both officials noted the role of the EU foreign policy in strengthening the international positions and influence of the European Union. Finland voiced its support to Mr Pabriks for expanding the network of Latvian representations abroad. The ministers agreed to discuss in the near future the prospect of sending a Latvian diplomat to work in an Embassy of Finland abroad. In this regard, the Latvian foreign minister noted the co-operation agreement recently concluded between Latvia and Spain, which provides for one position for a Latvian diplomat in the Spanish Embassy to Mexico. During the meeting the development of the Baltic Sea region, the EU-Russian relations and the EU Neighbourhood Policy were also discussed. The Minister also visited Finland's Secretariat for EU Affairs, where a meeting with the Finnish State Secretary, Antti Peltomäki, also took place. Article by Artis Pabriks: The New Latvian Role in the Baltic Sea Region,"Baltic Rim Economies" Estonia – Latvia – Lithuania – Poland, Bimonthly Economic Monitoring Review, Turku School of Economics and Business Administration; Ministry of Foreign Affairs (30.06.3005).
5 - 7 July 2005	Visit of a delegation of the U.S. Jewish Committee to Latvia
6 - 7 July 2005	State visit of the President of Poland, Aleksander Kwasnievski, to Latvia

IN BRIEF

The Saeima Speaker visits Kiel

From 18 – 20 June, following the invitation of the Landtag Schleswig-Holstein, the Speaker of the Saeima, Ingrida Udre, paid a visit to Kiel, Germany, to participate in the 40th meeting of the parliamentarians of the Baltic Sea region countries, whicht was traditionally held as part of the Kiel Week (Kieler Woche). The event was attended by the representatives of  Denmark, Finland, Norway, Sweden, Iceland, Poland, Latvia, Lithuania, Estonia, the Faeroes, Greenland and the Aland Islands as well as delegates from Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania (Germany) and Styria (Austria).

The opening event of the Kiel Week was attended by the President of the Federal Republic of Germany, Horst Kehler, who also met with the parliamentarians of the Baltic Sea countries. During the meeting with the Speaker of the Saeima, Ingrida Udre, the sides discussed issues related to the further EU development and the growth and role of the Baltic Sea region.

The subject of this year's discussion of the parliamentarians of the Baltic Sea region countries was "Identity. Reality. Determination: Where Does the EU Stand One Year after the Enlargement."

The Saeima  (17.06.2005) (20.06.2005)

Latvian ambassador to Finland receives one of the highest state awards of Finland

On 21 June, the Ambassador of the Republic of Latvia to Finland, Valdis Krastins, said his farewell to the President of Finland, Tarja  Halonen. During the meeting the Ambassador was presented with one of the highest state awards of Finland – the 1st class Order of the White Rose of Finland. Regent Mannerheim established the order in 1919 naming it "For Fatherland".
The ambassador's term of office expires on June 30, after that, he will continue working at the Latvian Foreign Affairs Ministry. Krastins was appointed as the Latvian ambassador to Finland in the summer of 2000. Before that, he had served as Latvian ambassador to the Czech Republic, Turkey, Slovakia and Norway.

Embassy of the Republic of Latvia to Finland (22.06.2005)

The 5th World Conference of Latvian Societies takes place

From 20 – 22 June, the 5^th World Conference of Latvian Societies, "Traditions in the Work of the Latvian Societies" was held. The focus of the conference was on the traditions of the work of the Latvian societies.  Every year more than a hundred participants from ten Latvian societies all over the world, including the United States, Australia, Great Britain, Russia and Sweden, take part in this conference.

The Conference was opened by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Artis Pabriks, who emphasized in his address the importance of the Latvian societies abroad and stated that this importance had not decreased after Latvia's accession to the European Union and NATO. He called on the Latvians in exile to continue active work on strengthening the Latvian ethnic identity, noting also that more attention should in future be devoted to developing and strengthening the awareness of the state and political belonging.

In the letter of congratulations to the 5th World Conference of Latvian Societies, the President of Latvia, Vaira Vike-Freiberga, pointed out that "the work of the Latvian societies and their existence is based on the social and ethnographic traditions preserved by Latvians, as the Latvian societies strived to preserve the valuable traditions of the nation, which has also been the main reason for establishing these societies. Both the ethnographic and social traditions bear a very significant role in terms of the work of the Latvian societies in various countries and continents, where the societies help preserve the national identity through maintaining the cultural values. [..] One of the most significant challenges faced by the Latvian societies today is to involve in the work of the societies the younger generation of Latvians born and living abroad whose opinion of Latvia and the Latvians is built up on the basis of the stories told by other people, books, the media and events lived through in the family and within the Latvian public".

Ministry of Foreign Affairs (20.06.2005)

President's Chancery (20.06.2005)

Consultations between the foreign ministries of Latvia and Israel

On 21 June 2005, economic and political consultations were held between Latvia and Israel. Israel's delegation was headed by the Deputy Director General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the State of Israel, Mark Sofer. In the talks on economic issues, the Latvian delegation was headed by the Under-Secretary of State of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Maija Manika, and at the meeting on political issues - by the Under-Secretary of State of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ilgvars Klava.

On the political matters, the parties exchanged opinions on the current issues of bilateral cooperation, as well as on the current multilateral cooperation and regional issues. Discussions at the talks included also issues related to the UN reform, cooperation in international organisations, relations with Russia, regional security, and cooperation within the Barcelona process.

Both sides agreed on the further development of the contractual basis for bilateral cooperation, exchange of visits, and cooperation in the Holocaust remembrance and education projects. 

After Latvia joined the European Union, the economic relations between both countries have developed successfully, and further steps are required to expand the cooperation both at the bilateral level and in the EU context.

Directions of cooperation between Latvia and Israel and signing of a cooperation memorandum between Latvia and Israel's IT associations in the near future were also discussed. Another topic was Latvia's possible participation in Israeli Prime Minister's Conference in autumn 2005 and in the AGRITECH exhibition in 2006.

During the visit, Israel's delegation met with the State Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Normans Penke; President's Foreign Affairs Adviser, Andrejs Pildegovics; the Chairman of the Saeima Foreign Affairs Committee, Vaira Paegle; and representatives of Latvia-Israel parliamentary cooperation group.  

Ministry of Foreign Affairs (22.06.2005)

Latvian experts help Moldova shape EU affairs coordination model

From 27 to 28 June 2005, Latvian experts paid a visit to the capital city of Moldova, Chisinau. During the visit, the representatives of the Moldavian state authorities and non-governmental organizations were consulted about Latvia's experience in building the EU integration affairs coordination model. The seminar was chaired by the Deputy Head of the Legal Department of the bank Latvijas Banka, the former Director of the European Integration Office, Edvards Kusners, and Deputy Head of the EU Member State and General Policies Division, Jelena Drozdova.

At the beginning of this year, a feasibility study visit was conducted to Moldova under the guidance of the Latvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs to define the areas where Moldova needs Latvia's experience and knowledge. This is the first technical assistance project implemented by Latvia, commenced in response to the interest and need voiced by Moldova.

Sharing of Latvia's reform experience is one of the ways to encourage the democratisation process on the former territory of the USSR – in the East European and Central Asian countries and to promote security, welfare and development of the region.

On 9 December 2004, the European Commission approved the EU-Moldova Action Plan for three years, which stipulates the strategic goals of co-operation between the EU and Moldova. The implementation of the action plan would make a significant contribution to the harmonisation of Moldavian laws with the EU standards.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs (27.06.2005)

DEFENCE ISSUES

United States provide financial assistance to Latvia's Armed Forces

On 24 June 2005, the US government allocated USD 4.5 million from the Coalition Solidarity Fund for the development of the Latvian Armed Forces.

The financing has been assigned on the basis of the resolution adopted by the US Congress in May of this year to back the initiative of the US President George Bush that provides for the US support for its allies and partners in strengthening democracy and stability in the world ("Solidarity Initiative to Support our Partners in Freedom").

The resources allocated will be used to purchase armoured vehicles, their spare parts, communication equipment, soldiers' equipment, armoured vests, night vision equipment, GPS (Global Positioning System), navigation equipment, and nuclear, biological and chemical detection equipment, and possibly - for other purposes as well.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs (01.07.2005)

 

Minister of Defence meets with Georgian officials

On 29 June, the National Security Advisor to the President of Georgia – Secretary of the National Security Council, Gela Bezhuashvili, visited the Latvian Ministry of Defence to meet with the Minister of Defence, Einars Repse.

Mr Bezhuashvili and Mr Repse discussed issues related to Latvian-Georgian cooperation in the area of defence, which had considerably improved lately, as well as Georgia's integration into the Euro-Atlantic institutions, and the bilateral cooperation of Georgia and Latvia to facilitate reforms in Georgia's defence sector.

The officials also discussed the importance of elaborating a qualitative strategic defence report, which would testify to Georgia's achievements in the area of defence, and issues related to the withdrawal of the Russian troops and surveillance of Georgia's borders within the EU.

During the visit the Secretary of the National Security Council of Georgia also met with representatives of Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Interior, the Saeima, and other officials. Prior to arriving in Latvia, the Secretary of the National Security Council of Georgia visited Lithuania, whereas on completion of his stay in Latvia he paid a visit to Estonia.

 Ministry of Defence (29.06.2005)

 

Commander of Marine Forces participates in the Balt Military EXPO 2005 and 200th anniversary celebrations of the Battle of Trafalgar

From 22 – 25 June, the Commander of Latvian Marine Forces, Captain Aleksandrs Pavlovics, attended the exhibitions "Balt Military EXPO 2005" and "Safety 2005" in Gdansk, Poland.

The expositions included exhibits of military equipment used by the Marine Forces, Coastal Guards, Air Forces and Police units of the Baltic States. The military officials of the Baltic region also held discussions on issues related to building new ships and the navigation safety.

Having attended the expositions, the Commander of the Marine Forces went to Portsmouth (UK), where he participated in the celebrations held from 27 – 29 June to mark the 200th anniversary of the Battle of Trafalgar. In the international ship parade in Portsmouth Latvia was represented by the Marine Forces ship "Virsaitis". The parade of ships including the participation of 174 ships from 35 countries was resumed after a 28-year long break and was headed by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

Ministry of Defence (21.06.2005)

LETA (28.06.2005)

ECONOMICS AND BUSINESS

Minister of Finance attends international ASEM meeting

From 25-30 June, Minister of Finance Oskars Spurdzins and State Secretary Valentina Andrejeva represented Latvia at the sixth Asia-Europe Finance ministers' meeting in Tianjin, China. The goal of the summit was to boost cooperation and development in both regions. The agenda was divided into three sessions - a review of the macroeconomic development, the overall development, and a closer Asian-European cooperation in economy and finance.

On conclusion of the Summit three official documents were passed – proposals to increase the efficiency of operation of the ASEM Ministers of Finance; Chairman's Statement, and the Tianjin Initiative on Closer ASEM Economic and Financial Cooperation.

Ministry of Finances (22.06.2005)

Asia-Europe Meeting, 2005 China

Minister of Transport meets with Italian Ministers of Transport and Communications

 From 27- 28 June, as part of the state visit of the President of Latvia, Vaira Vike-Freiberga, to Italy, the Minister of Transport, Ainars Slesers, met with the Italian Minister of Infrastructure and Transport, Pietro Lunardi. During the meeting the Ministers discussed the opportunities to enhance the cooperation between both countries in the area of motorways, railway and air transport. Latvian Minister of Transport, Ainars Slesers, was acquainted with Italy's experience related to financing and building of motorways, and the implementation of state and private partnership projects.

Both sides agreed to continue the dialogue on enhancing the bilateral cooperation with special emphasis on the exchange of contacts and experience of road specialists. Italian Minister of Infrastructure and Transport, Pietro Lunardi, accepted the invitation of his Latvian counterpart to visit Latvia this year so as to get acquainted with the situation in the area of sea transport and prospects for joint projects on Latvian ports. The Latvian Minister of Transport advised his Italian counterpart of the development plans of the Riga International Airport and suggested considering commencement of direct flight service to Riga by the Italian airlines.

Minister of Transport, Ainars Slesers, also met with the Italian Minister of Communications, Mario Landolfi, to discuss the development of the telecommunications sector of both countries and Italy's experience in relation to the introduction of digital television services. The Minister also got informed of issues related to the security of the state information networks. Both sides agreed on the visit of the Italian Minister to Latvia and establishment of an interministerial working group that would prepare the memorandum of cooperation in the area of communications.

During the visit the Minister of Transport, Ainars Slesers, also met with the representatives of the Italian TV company RAI and the management of the Naples port and addressed the attendees of the Latvia-Italy Business Forum in Rome and Naples.

Ministry of Transport (30.06.2005)

 

Airport "Riga" recognised as one of the best European airports

Last week at the "ACI Europe" Congress the Riga International Airport  was rated as Europe's best airport in the category of airports providing services to  1 -5  million passengers a year. This is the highest international recognition the Riga airport has gained so far. 

The judges said the airport was a great example of a new EU member state which had truly grasped the opportunities of Community membership. The judges singled it out for excellent route development, upgrades to infrastructure and innovative forward planning.

The jury consisting of journalists dealing with aviation issues evaluated the airports based on various criteria including passenger service, in-flight services, security precautions, non-aviation services and other.

For more information please see the official website of the Airports Council International http://www.aci-europe.org/

Airports Council International (29.06.2005)

LETA (30.06.2005)

 

Germany acquainted with investment opportunities in Latvia

On 21 June 2005 in Reinbeck bei Hamburg, the Department of Economy and Labour of the Free and Hanseatic City of Hamburg organized a discussion "Zukunft der Jobs – Jobs der Zukunft" ("The Future of Jobs – the Future Jobs"). Participating in the discussion were the Secretary of State of the Ministry of Finance of the Federal Land of Schleswig-Holstein, Klaus Schlie; the Ambassador of Latvia to Germany, Dr. Martins Virsis; a Member of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) of the German Bundestag, Claus-Eduard von Bismarck; and the German entrepreneurs and representatives of the institutions dealing with investment facilitation.

In his address to the audience, the Latvian Ambassador told about the investment environment and tourism development in Latvia, and stressed the close economic co-operation between Latvia and Germany attested by the visit of the Latvian Minister of Economy, Dr. Arturs Krisjanis Karins, to Hamburg on May 11 of this year.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs (22.06.2005)

Entrepreneurs Club established at the Embassy of Latvia to Russia

On 21 June 2005, the Entrepreneurs Club was established at the Embassy of Latvia to Russia. At the opening event, the Latvian Ambassador to Russia, Andris Teikmanis, emphasized the Embassy's readiness to assist and support the Latvian entrepreneurs who do their business in Russia. He noted, however, that a successful operation of the Entrepreneurs Club depends on how active the entrepreneurs themselves are. Representatives of different Russian state institutions will be invited to the meetings of the Club on a regular basis in order to acquaint them with the current events in their area of operation as, for example, customs and tax policy. Participating in the foundation event were representatives from a number of Latvian companies: "Dzintars", "Baltic Style", "FIB Group", "Aizkraukles banka", airBaltic", and "Ventspils naftas terminals".

Ministry of Foreign Affairs (22.06.2005)

LATEST STATISTICS

In May producer prices in industry increased by 0.3%. Compared with April, producer prices in Latvian industry in May 2005 increased by 0.3%, according to the Central Statistical Bureau. Over the year (compared with May last year) producer prices have increased by 8.2%. A year ago, in May 2004 prices rose by 0.7% compared to April but compared to May 2003 – by 7.4%. Central Statistical Board (21.06.2005)
Non-financial investment in Latvia in the first quarter of 2005. Non-financial investment* in Latvia in the 1st quarter of 2005 was 270.6 mln lats, an increase of 4% on the 1st quarter of 2004, according to the Central Statistical Bureau. Non-financial investments in the public sector totalled 74.4 mln lats (27% of the total non-financial investment value), down by 19% on the 1st quarter of 2004. 196.2 mln lats (73% of the total value) were, in turn, invested in the private sector in the 1st quarter of 2005, an increase of 17% compared to the 1st quarter of 2004. Central Statistical Board (27.06.2005)
Trends in the ethnic composition of the population. Central Statistical Board (29.06.2005)

EXCHANGE RATES

SOCIETY, CULTURE AND SPORTS

Memorial to victims of Nazi concentration camp unveiled in Riga

On 29 June, a memorial honouring approximately 18,000 former prisoners of the Kaiserwald concentration camp set up by the Nazis in Riga during World War II was unveiled in Mezaparks. The project was funded by the Riga City Council, the German embassy in Latvia as well as Pax Christi public organization from Muenster, Germany.

Latvian Foreign Minister Artis Pabriks, Society Integration Minister Ainars Latkovskis, ambassadors from several countries, including Russia, Germany and the United States, representatives of the Latvian Jewish Community as well as many elderly people and representatives of the younger generation, attended the unveiling ceremony.

In her statement at the ceremony, the President of Latvia, Vaira Vike-Freiberga, said that "Latvia must not conceal the dark side of the history". The concentration camp was a great tragedy for Latvia and the Jewish people, said the President, adding that the monument could help to ensure that the consequences of denying humanity and human qualities were not forgotten.

The Latvian foreign minister pointed out that even in hard times there had always been people, who chose the right way. He said that it was important to speak to young people about the events during the war as 60 years had already passed since the end of the war and the memories were fading.

The Israeli Ambassador to Latvia, Gary Koren, underlined the need for teaching the history of the Holocaust at schools and thanked Latvia for its contribution to this end.

 BNS (29.06.2005)

Latvian delegation attends the informal meeting of the EU Ministers of Culture in Luxembourg

From 26- 27 June, Luxembourg hosted an informal meeting of the EU Ministers of Culture. Latvian delegation attending the event included State Secretary of Ministry of Culture, Daniels Pavluts, Director of Culture Policy Department, Dace Vilsone, and Manager of EU Policy Department, Linda Trusevska.

The event included a meeting with the members of the European Forum on architecture policies. Information was provided on the progress of the discussions held in relation to the declaration on Europe's charter of culture, on the seminars organised during the Luxembourg Presidency, proposals for the "Culture 2007" support programme,  "70 cents to culture" campaign, and on other issues.

Ministry of Culture (16.06.2005)

6th international Baltic Studies Conference

From 17 – 19 June, the 6^th Baltic research conference in Europe The Baltic Way in Europe. Revolution and Evolution was held in Valmiera, the Vidzeme University (ViA) during which a hundred scientists doing research work on the Baltic States and representing universities and research institutions of various countries delivered speeches on the subject. The conference was dedicated to the 100th anniversary of the Revolution of 1905 thus emphasising the interchange of various revolutionary and evolutionary changes in the Baltics during the period of time of a hundred years since the violent yet so differently viewed revolution of 1905, which in different Baltic countries, regions and social groups took place differently.

 On the day of opening on 17 June, the patron of the conference, President of Latvia Vaira Vike-Freiberga, emphasised that the Baltic States, owing to their rapid evolution, had experienced a certain growth revolution since the restoration of independence in 1991as, from a scientific point of view, this dynamic a development in so short a time seemed to be one moment of history.

Previous Baltic research conferences were held at the University of Latvia in Riga (1995), Vilnius University (1997), Stockholm University (1999), Tartu University (2001) and Turku University (2003).

President's Chancery (17.06.2005)

LETA (14.06.2005)

Celebrating Midsummer Solstice together with Latvian diaspora in Minsk

On 18 June 2005, the staff of the Latvian Embassy in Belarus, together with representatives of the Latvian diaspora in Belarus, initiated the celebrations of the biggest Latvian summer solstice festival - Ligo and Jani. The Embassy employees sang Ligo songs, danced, and rejoiced at the bonfire. During the event, the participants could listen about Latvian ornaments, their meaning and value for the Latvian culture, as well as about Latvian rituals and traditions. The participants could taste Jani cheese with caraway seeds and barley beer. The event was supported by the Latvian Society Integration Foundation.

Together with representatives of the Latvian diaspora and the Society Integration Foundation, the Embassy has also hosted the celebrations of other traditional national festivals - Christmas, Meteni and Easter.

The Latvian diaspora in Minsk formed in March 2004, and this year it has named itself the Latvian public organisation "Auseklis" and has already prepared documents for registration in Belarus.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs (20.06.2005)

 

Young pianist from Latvia wins the 3rd place in international piano competition in Prague

On 30 June 2005 in Rudolfinum, a famous place in Prague hosting various events, the gala concert of the 2^nd International Rudolf Firkusny Piano Competition was held.

A second-year student of the Latvian Academy of Music, student of the professor Juris Kalnciems, Ilze Zvaigznekalne, won the third place.

The competition was held with the support of the Latvian Ambassador to the Czech Republic, Iveta Sulca. Participating in the competition were 43 participants from 20 countries.

The competition lasted from 24 June to 30 June 2005 and consisted of three rounds. Participating in it were three Latvian pianists.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs (01.07.2005) 

Elza Leimane and Raimonds Martinovs candidate for the diplomas of the 8th New York International Ballet Competition

On 28 June, the ballet dancers of the Latvian National Opera Elza Leimane and Raimonds Martinovs returned to Riga from the US where they participated in the 8th New York International Ballet Competition held from 6 – 26 June. The Latvian ballet dancers got as far as the third round – the finals, thus becoming candidates for the diplomas of the Competition.

The New York International Ballet Competition is one of the world's most prestigious ballet events and is held since 1984 (once in every three years). This year the jury evaluated the performance of previously selected 24 ballet couples representing 19 countries.  The jury consisted of various professionals including the world famous choreograph,  Hans van Manen (Netherlands), former Artistic Director of the Royal Ballet School of England, Merle Park (UK), Artistic Director of Ballet company of the Moscow Theatre, Aleksey Ratmansky (Russia), etc.
For more information please see http://www.nyibc.org/2005.htm

Ministry of Culture (28.06.2005)

Sabine Guravska qualifies for the finals of the 11th Eurovision Young Dancers Competition

From 18 – 24 June, 2nd year student of the Riga Choreography School, Sabine Guravska, participated in the 11th Eurovision Young Dancers competition qualifying for the finals.  This year the event was hosted by Warsaw, Poland and broadcasted by the Polish television. The winners of the competition were the dancers from the Netherlands, followed by dancers of Poland as second and Belgium as third.

The semi-finalists were evaluated not only by their individual videos, but also by their performance in master classes during which ten finalists were selected. A documentary film will be made of the performance of the young dancers for broadcasting by all member countries of the competition.

The 11th Eurovision Young Dancers Competition is a prestigious EBU- organised young dancers event, which is broadcasted by the televisions of the EBU member countries. The Eurovision Young Dancers Competition is an internationally acknowledged dancing event and this was the 20th time the event was held.

LETA (27.06.2005) 

"Dzintarins" perform in Norway

The Latvian folk dance group "Dzintarins" gave a concert in Norway performing also to the royal family. The concert was broadcasted on television and followed by interviews to the local newspaper.

"Dzintarins" went to Norway to participate in the celebrations held to mark the 100th anniversary since Norway regained freedom from Sweden.

LETA (19.06.2005)

Presentation of Latvian films in France

From 23 June to 3 July 2005, the AYE AYE FILM FESTIVAL is taking place in the city of Nancy, France. A number of Latvian documentary and art films will be screened at the festival – "Ten minutes older" and "The Last Judgment" by Herz Frank, "Python" and "Papa Gena" by Laila Pakalnina, "Keep smiling" by Askolds Saulitis, "Merry Christmas, Daudz laimes" by Aija Bley, and two animation film programmes – "Trophy" by Karlis Vitols and animated cartoons made in the animation studios "Rija" and "Animacijas Brigade". The animation film "Insomnia" by Vladimir Leschiov has been nominated for the festival's competition.

On July 2 the Latvian Film Day will be held, during which the Latvian films are to be demonstrated with short lectures on the history and culture of Latvia delivered by the professor of history at the University of Nancy, Didier Francfort, and Renate Babre, a Latvian who was involved in organizing the festival with the support of the European Union programme. The Ambassador of Latvia to France, Rolands Lappuke, is also planning to take part in the Latvian Film Day.

As part of the AYE AYE FILM FESTIVAL, a youth culture forum will be held. Among the participants of the forum will be four young people from Latvia.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs (22.06.2005)

 

Works by Latvian glass artists and ceramists exhibited in France

From 1 – 19 June, in Montauban, France, an international sculpture exhibition  "Rencontre Européene Sculpture" took place. Representing Latvia, glass artists and members of the ceramics studio "Artelis" participated in the exhibition. Foreign artists were selected following a contest.
Exhibiting in the event were famous French sculptors as well as artists from the new EU member states – the Czech Republic, Latvia, Poland, Bulgaria, Rumania and Italy, Spain and other countries.

LETA (20.06.2005)

Latvian artists enter the UK market

On 1 July, an arts gallery Cherado Art Empire was opened in Riga offering to the UK market the works of art of Latvian photographers, young artists and well-known masters. The Director and co-owner of the gallery, Martins Ate, believes that the demand for the works of art of Latvian artists in the UK market, the initial target audience, will be large.

The founders of the gallery consider that the cultural diversity and distances between the countries are not seen as an obstacle any more, which is why, taking benefit of the advantages of the Internet, the best Eastern European artists will also be attracted in the near future making their works of art available all over the world.

For more information about the gallery please see: www.cherado.co.uk  or www.cherado.com.

LETA (29.06.2005)

Latvian team wins the Latvia-Belarus Strongman Championship

On 18 June, during the Daugavpils city days, the Latvia-Belarus Strongman Championship was held. Competing with other two teams the Latvian team (Aleksandrs Vahmjaninovs, Ingus Kaktenieks) came first. The tournament was supported by the Association of Belarusians in Latvia and the Embassy of Belarus to Latvia. As guests of honour attending the event were also attended by the winner of the silver medal of the Athens Olympics Viktors Scerbatihs (Latvia), Olympic champion in weightlifting Leonids Taranenko (Belarus), Consul General of Belarus to Daugavpils, Genadijs Ahramovics and Chairwoman of the Association of Belarusians in Latvia, Valentina Piskunova. The chief judge of the event was Anatolijs Lukjanenko (Belarus).
 

LETA (20.06.2005)

 

Latvian BMX bicyclists win international championships

From 25-26 June, in Cheddar, UK, the 7th and 8th round of the European BMX championship was held, in which the Latvian sportsman Ivo Lakucs came first in the elite class, whereas Maris Stombergs came fourth among the junior drivers.

Sandra Aleksejeva representing the Latvian BMX club "Silvas zikeri" came third both days in the girl's group aged 13-14, whereas the 8-year old Reits Elnionis representing the BMX club "Mitavas kumeli" (Jelgava) came first both days.

In the later part of last week at the NBL "Hoosier National" championship in Evansville, Indiana, the US, the Latvian BMX bicyclist Arturs Matisons won the Open semi-finals and came fifth in the finals.

LETA (27.06.2005)

CALENDAR OF ARTS EVENTS    

 

21 June – December 2005	Sculpture exposition by Ojars Feldbergs "Open Stone", Pirkkala, Finland, 371 7 622335, e-mail: pedvale@pedvale.lv
27 June – 6 July 2005	9th Latvian School Youth Song and Dance Festival, Riga, 371 7228987, e-mail: pasts@vjic.gov.lv
2 – 9 July 2005	10th International plain-air of draftsmen and painters "City and the Sea", Liepaja, 371 34 23503
4 – 10 July 2005	International Music Festival "Rhythms of Riga 2005", Riga, 371 6532856, e-mail: marisbriezkalns@radio.org.lv
9 – 22 July 2005	International Arts Symposium  ''Valmiera 2005'', Valmiera, 371 4233888, e-mail: galerijalaipa@valmiera.lv
13 – 17 July 2005	6th International Dance Festival "Sudmalinas", Riga, Ainazi, Aizkraukle, Baldone, Cesis, Jelgava, Kuldiga, 371 7228985, e-mail: pasts@tmc.gov.lv
13 – 17 July 2005	4th International Theatre Festival "Talvils", Valka, 371 7228020, e-mail: teatris@tmc.gov.lv
16 July 2005	International music and sports festival "Fonofest", Cesis district, Extreme Sports Center "UPLANDI", 371 9119054
23 July 2005	4th Italy Festival "Viva la Italia", Jurmala, 371 7814471, e-mail: dome@jpd.gov.lv
30 – 31 July 2005	13th International Opera music festival, Sigulda, 371 7277900, e-mail: Sigulda.Festival@music.lv
July – August 2005	Old-Riga Bell Towers' Music, Riga, 371 9148642, e-mail: shady@shady.lv
4 – 6 August 2005	International Saxophone Festival "A Distinct Note", Staicele, 371 7228330, e-mail: Vilis.Kokamegi@tmc.gov.lv
Until November 2005	Exhibition "Latvian State Decorations", Riga, Museum of the History of Riga and Navigation, 371 7356671
Year 2005	Culture Events in Latvia 2005

Information bulletin "Current Latvia" is a compilation of press releases and news reports drawn from the media and official sources. Not all of the views published reflect the official position of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.