Latvia to have the first non-resident ambassador to Brazil

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Brazil has granted its agrément to the appointment of Artis Bertulis as the first Ambassador of Latvia to Brazil.

In order to commence the fulfilment of his duties, Mr Bertulis is to present his credentials to President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva of Brazil.

The Foreign Ministry of Latvia is pleased to note that by reaching an agreement on the appointment of an ambassador to Brazil, Latvia has greatly improved its opportunities for co-operation with Brazil, the region's leader, a strategic ally to EU and a significant international player.

By appointing a non-resident ambassador, the Foreign Ministry wishes to strengthen co-operation within international organisations, to attract Brazil's interest in the Latvian economy and market, and also to promote contacts for Latvian businesses in Brazil.

The Ministry believes that closer co-operation needs to be developed in the area of cultural exchanges and higher education, especially taking into account the fact that Brazil is home to the largest Latvian diaspora in Latin America.

At the same time, Mr Bertulis will remain the Ambassador of Latvia to Portugal, residing in Lisbon.

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