Latvia marks 33 years since the restoration of independence

RIGA - Latvia today marks 33 years since the restoration of independence.

33 years ago the Supreme Council of the Republic of Latvia passed the constitutional law "On the Statehood of the Republic of Latvia", marking the end of transition to "de facto" independence of Latvia since the declaration "On the Restoration of Independence of the Republic of Latvia" that was adopted on May 4, 1990.

The Supreme Council of the Republic of Latvia passed the law, "acknowledging our responsibility before the nation, the Declaration of May 4, 1990, the results of the popular vote, and the collapse of the constitutional state authority of the USSR on August 19, 1991."

Thus, on August 21, 1991, the Supreme Council of the Republic of Latvia ruled that Latvia is an independent democratic republic, and the sovereign power of the State of Latvia is vested in the people of Latvia.

The bill was signed by the Supreme Council's Chairman Anatolijs Gorbunovs and Secretary Imants Daudiss.

Various events marking the anniversary will be held throughout Latvia today, which is a public holiday.