Latvian formin signs a memorandum of understanding between the Foreign Ministries of Latvia and Paraguay

From 12 to 14 December, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Edgars Rinkēvičs, was on an official visit in the Republic of Paraguay.

During his visit, Edgars Rinkēvičs signed a memorandum of understanding between the Ministries of Foreign Affairs of Latvia and Paraguay on political consultations in matters of mutual interest. The Foreign Minister said he was certain that the agreement will enable the deepening of a bilateral political dialogue and cooperation in a number of areas. Edgars Rinkēvičs proposed that the first consultations should be held in Riga.

In a meeting with the Foreign Minister of Paraguay, Eladio Loizaga Caballero, and the Deputy Foreign Minister, Federico Gonzáles, Foreign Minister Rinkēvičs appreciated the friendly and constructive relations between the countries and their active cooperation in international organisations. At the same time, Edgars Rinkēvičs emphasised Latvia’s interest in building business contacts with Paraguay.

It is noteworthy, said the Minister, that this year marks the 25th anniversary since the establishment of diplomatic relations between Latvia and Paraguay. He expressed certainty that the present visit will spur an active political dialogue as well as opening new opportunities for the development of contacts in trade, transit and logistics, tourism, education and science, including information and communication technologies and innovation. 

In a discussion on cooperation in education and science, Edgars Rinkēvičs stressed that Latvian higher education certificates have been recognised internationally and that higher education institutions in Latvia offer vast opportunities studies in English.

In a meeting with the Vice Minister of the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, Victor Bernal, the Latvian Foreign Minister expressed support for the signing of an agreement between the EU and Mercosur (Southern Common Market). The Minister also reiterated Latvia’s willingness to expand cooperation with Paraguay in transport, logistics, information and communication technologies and other fields.