Latvia and Sweden discuss expanding military cooperation

RIGA - Latvia and Sweden are in talks to expand their military cooperation, Latvian Defense Minister Artis Pabriks (Development/For) told LETA. 

The minister said that he had talked with his Swedish colleague about closer bilateral cooperation. Besides other things, Latvia would be interested in the presence of Swedish troops in its territory, but in Pabriks' words, this has to be "regarded in the context". 

"We had talks of more extensive character, because this is not just about soldiers, but also about equipment, training and other things. We would definitely be glad about Swedes' presence in Latvia and closer military cooperation," Pabriks said, adding that it is still too early to elaborate on the forms this cooperation. 

The defense minister said that Latvia would like to step up military cooperation with Finland as well. Latvia and Finland already have very good cooperation in the sector of military industry, he noted. 

As reported, Finland and Sweden at NATO's Summit in Madrid last week signed protocols to join the Alliance. The Saeima is expected to decide on the ratifying the protocols at its July 14 meeting.