We have done a lot for common understanding of our role in national defense - National Guard commander

RIGA - A lot has been done in the understanding of the role of the whole country in national defense, National Guard Commander Kaspars Pudans told Latvian Television this morning.

"This is where I see great success - we have done a lot not only in building, developing our own capabilities, but really in the common understanding of the whole state about its role in national defense," Pudans said.

As of Monday, a regulation providing for additional forms of national defense service, namely service in the National Guard and a reserve officer program for university students, entered into force.

Pudans explained that people who opt for it will be given the opportunity to be a part of the national defense service in the National Guard for 5 years in certain periods. The minimum required is 28 days per year.

At the same time, this opportunity to undergo the national defense service in the National Guard is only available on a voluntary basis.