Braze discusses strategic partnership and support for Ukraine during US visit

RIGA - During her visit to the U.S. this week, Foreign Minister Baiba Braze (New Unity) discussed strengthening the strategic partnership between the two countries, preparations for the NATO summit in Ankara, and support for Ukraine, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) informed LETA.

In Michigan, the minister met with U.S. officials and members of the Latvian diaspora, while also participating in events celebrating the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence and the 16th North American Latvian Song and Dance Festival.

During the visit, the minister met with U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin to discuss strengthening transatlantic cooperation, the security situation in the Baltic region, the upcoming NATO summit in Ankara, and support for Ukraine. The discussion highlighted the importance of the U.S. military presence in the Baltics, joint efforts to strengthen NATO deterrence capabilities, and the crucial role of the Baltic Security Initiative in developing the region's defense capabilities.

Slotkin commended Latvia's achievements, emphasizing that Latvia is a model ally, including by investing five percent of its gross domestic product (GDP) in defense, and reaffirmed the U.S. Congress' strong support for Baltic security.

During a meeting with Major General Paul Rogers, commander of the Michigan National Guard, the minister highlighted cooperation with the National Guard under his command, which has been one of the closest and most reliable partners of the Latvian National Armed Forces for more than 30 years. Both sides expressed satisfaction with the extensive practical cooperation, particularly the joint military exercises and work on the establishment of the Selija military training area, and discussed expanding cooperation, including the development of drone capabilities.

During the visit, the minister also participated in Independence Day celebrations, congratulating the U.S. on this anniversary and reaffirming the long-standing strategic partnership between Latvia and the U.S., their shared democratic values, and their close alliance.

The minister also participated in the 16th North American Latvian Song and Dance Festival in Grand Rapids, emphasizing the importance of culture and traditions in preserving Latvia's identity and passing it on to future generations. During the Song Festival, the minister met with the leadership of the World Free Latvians Association, the American Latvian Association, and other Latvian diaspora organizations to discuss future cooperation in advancing Latvia's interests and strengthening relations between Latvia and the United States. The minister also participated in fundraising events organized by the University of Latvia Foundation and the Museum of the Occupation of Latvia Foundation.

The MFA emphasized that the meeting with the Latvian diaspora was dedicated to their significant contribution to Latvia's development, cooperation in the fields of education and culture, as well as the diaspora's role in strengthening Latvia's image around the world. The minister thanked the Latvian diaspora, partners, and supporters for their contributions to Latvia's development and to strengthening relations between Latvia and the United States.