At NATO Summit, Latvia would stand up for ensuring permanent NATO presence in region - Rinkevics

RIGA - On April 1 in Tallinn, Estonia, Latvian Foreign Minister Edgars Rinkevics (New Unity) met with the Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of the France, Jean-Yves Le Drian, LETA learned from the Latvian Foreign Ministry. 

The Ministers discussed Russia’s aggression against Ukraine and the strong response measures taken by NATO and the European Union, as they strengthen sanctions on Russia and continue all kinds of assistance to Ukraine.

Rinkevics welcomed support offered by France and an increase in its military presence to reinforce NATO’s eastern flank. The Latvian Foreign Minister underlined that at the NATO Summit to be held in Madrid in June, Latvia would stand up for ensuring permanent NATO presence in the region.

Tallinn also hosted a meeting between the Ministers of Foreign Affairs of the three Baltic States and France.

The Ministers had an in-depth discussion on the impact of Russia’s aggression against Ukraine on security, and they also exchanged views on NATO’s short-term and long-term deterrence and defense measures. The Baltic States and France reaffirmed that they were prepared to continue their close cooperation, including in further support for Ukraine.

Rinkevics underlined the essential role of the European Union in providing aid to Ukraine. A changed security situation has reinforced European unity, and this proves the need for the European Union to augment its defense capabilities, thereby becoming an important strategic player, the Foreign Minister said.