Minister of Foreign Affairs notes the importance of the role of Latvian societies abroad [20 Jun 2005]

On 20 June 2005, the Latvian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Artis Pabriks, opened the 5^th World Conference of Latvian Societies, "Traditions in 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.

In his address to the audience, the Minister emphasized the importance of the Latvian societies abroad, and that this importance has 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. "I urge you to make a step forward, and not only tell about Latvia as a country rich in ancient cultural traditions, but also create Latvia's state and political image by telling about Latvia's national development, its role in the international organizations, and the experience shared with the neighbouring countries."

Mr Pabriks admitted that a new era had started for the Latvian communities abroad, as now many Latvians have gone abroad in order to study or work there. Mr Pabriks pointed out how important it was for Latvia that these people returned one day. If, however, they decide to stay permanently in that country, then the task of the Latvian societies would be to involve those people in the activities of their organizations, thereby helping them get accustomed to the new conditions, and at the same time not lose ties with Latvia.

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