Centenary of Latvia-US diplomatic ties to be marked at Foreign Ministry

RIGA - The Foreign Ministry will be marking the centenary of Latvia-US diplomatic relations this Thursday, LETA was told at the ministry. 

At 15:00, a video "The Centenary of Diplomatic Relations between Latvia and US" will be shown at the ministry, which will be followed by speeches by Foreign Minister Edgars Rinkevics (New Unity) and US Ambassador to Latvia John Carwile.

Later, at 15:25, Marcis Vilcans, head of Latvijas Pasts national postal company, will present a postage stamp dedicated to the centenary of diplomatic relations between Latvia and the US. At 15:35, Latvian Ambassador to the US Maris Selga will unveil the exhibition "The Centenary of Diplomatic Relations between Latvia and US". 

According to the Foreign Ministry, the Unites States is a strategic partner and ally of Latvia. Both countries have special relations. Until the restoration of Latvia's independence in 1991, the US consistently following the policy of non-recognition of Latvia's occupation and provided an invaluable contribution to the restoration of Latvia's independence, as well as facilitated Latvia's integration in NATO and the European Union. 

The US formally recognized Latvia on July 28, 1922.