On April 17 Deputy Advisor of the US State Secretary for the European Affairs Mr. Walter W. Andrusyszyn met the Foreign Minister of Latvia Mr. Indulis Berzins and the State Secretary of the Foreign Ministry Mr. Maris Riekstins.

During the meeting both sides discussed the issues related to the US support to Latvia's integration into the European Union and NATO, European Security and Defence Identity as well as the relations of Latvia and Russia.

The officials discussed the current situation in Latvia. Mr. Berzins ascertained that Latvia's priorities âÀ“ the accession to the EU and NATO remain unchanged and Latvia will keep to the policy it has adopted.

Mr. Andrusyszyn stressed that Latvia's development during the ten years of the independence can be characterised as very successful. Positive evaluation was also given to Latvia's progress in the integration of the society. Mr. Andrusyszyn noted Latvia's serious contribution in implementation of the NATO Membership Action Plan of Latvia.

In discussing European Security and Defence Identity both sides were unanimous that it has been elaborated in order to effectively prevent crisis in the European continent. At the same time the US involvement in Europe therefore a strong transatlantic link has to be maintained and a close co-operation between the EU and NATO has to be ensured.

As regards the relations between Latvia and Russia the significance of the US support to the stabilisation of these relations was noted.

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