Address by Latvian Foreign Minister, Artis Pabriks,
at the opening of the seminar Rainis and the Holy Land,
Latvian National Theatre,
3 November 2005
Your Excellencies,
Ladies and gentlemen,
The name of the seminar makes us think not only about Rainis and the Holy Land, but also about the nations that live far from each other, but are historically bound with close ties. It makes us reflect on the history, modern days and mistakes we can learn from.
Rainis and the Holy Land – a very philosophical issue. We may imagine any of us replacing Rainis, and being in Latvia instead of the Holy Land. There is an element of spirituality in the thought, as it urges us to consider the mutual relations between people and countries.
Rainis was an outstanding personality. He was a politician, a playwright, a poet and a thinker. Politics, art and everyday follow us everywhere we go, and they all are interwoven in this seminar.
It is significant that the seminar is held in November; a month when we celebrate our country's birthday, a month, some say, when the souls of our ancestors visit us, and a month when we can take the time for reflection.
I hope that this event will help to continue the friendly relations between countries and their people, as we have much in common.
Thank you!
