Obama wins U.S. election

Nov 05, 2008
Monika Hanley in cooperation with BNS

RIGA- Presidential hopeful Republican John McCain officially conceded the election to Democrat Barack Obama, in what is seen as an historical moment for both the U.S. and the world.

Latvian Foreign Minister Maris Riekstins said that Latvia is ready to continue close cooperation with the administration of the newly-elected U.S. President Barack Obama not only bilaterally, but also within the European Union (EU) and NATO.

Riekstins told reporters that Latvia since restoration of its independence has had a very good relationship with administrations of all US presidents both Republican and Democrat.

"I am sure that relations with the US will be developed at the same atmosphere also with the new US president. We are ready to continue close cooperation both bilaterally and within NATO and EU," said Riekstins.

He said that the US foreign policy will see new elements, signs of which could be observed during Obama's pre-election campaign, such as operations in Afghanistan and Iraq as well as Iran's nuclear program.

"Undoubtedly, there will be changes, but what is important for Latvia, Obama has repeatedly voiced support to European new democracies, including Latvia. I am looking forward with optimism," said the minister.

U.S. Ambassador to Latvia Charles Larson is positive that relations between the U.S. and Latviawill remain good after the victory of Barack Obama.

Larson told the press when the results were in, that the U.S. foreign policy has been consistent regarding the Baltic states andLatvia, therefore he believes no significant changes are expected. The US has strong and long-term relations with Latvia,” he said.

Speaking about having to leave his position, Larson said that he loves Latvia, but changes are healthy. "These are normal changes," he said.

Larson admitted that Obama's victory means very significant changes not only in the US, but also in the world. "It is a serious signal regarding tolerance," said Larson. "This is a historic and exciting day," he said.

President-elect Barack Obama and Vice-President-elect Joe Biden are to be sworn in to office on Jan. 20, 2009.

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