PM Karins calls on expats to return home

RIGA - Every Latvian living abroad is needed in Latvia and will be welcomed home with open arms, Prime Minister Krisjanis Karins (New Unity) said on Monday, addressing diaspora participants of Latvia's Song and Dance festival at the Kipsala International Exhibition Centre.

The prime minister urged the expats to at least consider repatriation once they return from their visit to Latvia. 

Karins wished Latvians living abroad to nurture their Latvian identity and to instill it in their children. In his opinion, the diaspora groups participating in the XXVII Latvian Song and XVII Latvian Dance Festival demonstrate that this is possible to do. 

"Our culture and nation is a cross-border phenomenon. We are able to survive and develop in the most diverse conditions," the prime minister said.

As reported, on Monday evening the Kipsala International Exhibition Centre has been transformed into the World Latvian Meeting House for diaspora groups. The event will feature a concert, singalong and dance by diaspora groups.