RIGA - Latvia's next government coalition will focus on combating corruption, increasing internal security funding and developing a patient-oriented healthcare system, according a draft cooperation memorandum obtained by LETA.
The fundamental principles of Latvia's next government will include proportionality in each party's representation in the government and decision-making on the cooperation council, continuity in approach to the reforms started by the previous government, and solidarity in the work of the prime minister and his cabinet ministers.
According to the draft memorandum, the coalition would work to build a cohesive and united Latvian nation based on Latvian as the only state language, culture and common historical memory.
The draft memorandum will also oblige the government to strengthen the security of Latvia's information environment, follow a sustainable demographic policy promoting the reproduction of the population, especially focusing on children and preventing poverty risk for families with children.
Latvia's next government will also continue to consistently support Ukraine in its struggle for freedom as well as follow a strict sanctions policy against Russia and Belarus.
The three parties would agree to introduce national defense service (conscription) from mid-2013 and raise the defense budget to 3 percent of GDP by 2027. Increased financing (2.5 percent of GDP by 2026) would also be provided to ensure internal security and public order, improve Latvia's civil protection system and strengthening of Latvia's external borders.
The coalition parties would also commit to the principles of rules-based and democratic country, strengthening the rule of law and democratic values and combating corruption, enhancing law enforcement and judicial procedures and compliance with Constitutional Court rulings.
To promote Latvia economic growth, the new government coalition would commit to raising R&D funding to 1.5 percent of GDP, enhancing the management of state-owned enterprises and planning their listing on the stock exchange.
The memorandum also envisages completing Latvia's port reform, increasing local governments' involvement in the ports' management.
The would-be coalition would also commit to facilitate the construction of a liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal in Skulte without putting additional financial burden on consumers and without contravening Latvia's environmental policy and climate goals.
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