Statement by the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Latvia [15 Jun 2001]

Atlantic Alliance embodies the shared commitment on the part of member nations to defend the same values of democracy, free market economy and individual liberties. Latvia shares these values. Our NATO membership will ensure that we protect them collectively together with Allies.

Latvia particularly welcomes the position of the President Bush that geography and history must not be obstacles for a country to join NATO. Historic injustices should be righted, not perpetuated.

Latvia is ready to be a contributor to protection of the shared values of Allied countries. The speed of our democratic reforms, development of defense area, our contribution to current NATO commitments in Balkans are evidence to that. We are determined to make sure that invitation for Latvia to join NATO at the Prague summit will make the Alliance stronger.

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