Latvia is ready to take part in reconstruction of Ukraine - Saeima speaker

RIGA - Latvia is ready to take part in the reconstruction of Ukraine, and our civic society and private sector are determined to support Ukraine, Saeima Speaker Inara Murniece (National Alliance) said in her speech at the Ukraine Recovery Conference in the Swiss city of Lugano on Tuesday. 

Russia's war against Ukraine has brought about serious long-term geopolitical, economic and humanitarian consequences even in countries far away from Europe, the Latvian parliament speaker said. The world must clearly see that in this war Ukraine is the victim defending its people and land, Murniece stressed. 

Furthermore, only Ukraine's complete victory and Russia's complete defeat can ensure lasting peace and security in Europe, Murniece said, adding that the sooner this is achieved the sooner the economic recovery and growth can begin. 

"The Ukrainian government must determine the priorities of the country's reconstruction plan. The decision to grant Ukraine the status of candidate state clearly anchors Ukraine on the European Union's map," the Saeima speaker said. 

In Murniece's words, support to Ukraine must be linked to its EU integration reforms. After the war, Ukraine's goal is to become a modern European country. We are interested in turning the dream into reality, Murniece said. 

Murniece is visiting Lugano, Switzerland, until July 6 to meet with Irene Kalin, President of the National Council of Switzerland, and attend the Ukraine Recovery Conference, LETA was told at the Saeima press office.