Constant presence of allied vessels in Baltic Sea is strong element of deterrence - Pabriks

RIGA - Constant presence of allied vessels in the Baltic Sea is a strong element of deterrence, Defense Minister Artis Pabriks (Development/For) said in a remote meeting with Commodore Bradley Peats, commander of Standing NATO Maritime Group One (SNMG1).

Pabriks and Commodore Peats had the remote meeting on Thursday to discuss allied warships' visit to Latvian territorial waters and regional security.

"With Russian military activity increasing, it is clear that we need to take a complex approach to the defense of our territory, because in a potential emergency, sea and air supply chains would be especially important. Constant presence of allied vessels in the Baltic Sea is a strong element of deterrence, ensuring the ability to receive assistance when needed," said Pabriks. 

This week, SNMG1 and the Latvian Naval Forces are holding a training exercise in the Baltic Sea, The Portuguese frigate Corte Real docked at Riga Port and the group's leading ship, the Canadian patrol frigate Fredericton moored off Riga.