France is a close ally of Latvia - Rinkevics

RIGA - France is a close ally of Latvia, Latvian President Edgars Rinkevics said on Friday at a meeting with French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Catherine Colonna at Riga Castle.

Rinkevics' adviser Martins Dregeris told LETA that the parties met to discuss bilateral cooperation, regional security and current foreign policy challenges.

During the meeting, the President stressed the importance of France as a close ally of Latvia and expressed his gratitude for France's involvement in strengthening the security of the Baltic States.

Rinkevics also welcomed the Latvia-France Action Plan 2023-2027, signed during the visit, which will promote partnership between the two countries in various fields, especially education, the economy and energy. The President of Latvia particularly noted the potential for economic cooperation between Latvia and France.

"We appreciate the active participation of French companies in the Rail Baltica project, and we see good potential for cooperation in the production of renewable energy sources," Rinkevics said.

The two sides also discussed their support for Ukraine and Russia's responsibility for its aggression and crimes against Ukraine.

The President stressed that in the current geopolitical situation it was essential to strengthen democracy and the rule of law. The officials also discussed the situation in Georgia and Moldova and the position of the leadership and the public in these countries regarding their wish to join the European Union.