Latvia wants to strengthen economic cooperation with Canada

RIGA - The war in Ukraine has affected not only the security situation, but also the economies of our countries, said the Speaker of the Saeima, Edvards Smiltens (United List), during a meeting with Canadian Ambassador to Latvia Brian Szwarc on Friday, calling for new opportunities for closer economic cooperation, especially in the field of innovation and sustainable development.

As LETA was informed by the Press Service of the Saeima, Smiltens noted that the situation in the world, including the security situation, has changed drastically since February 24, when Russia invaded Ukraine. According to him, NATO countries are working together as close as ever. The politician noted that Canada and Latvia are strategic partners, and also expressed high appreciation for Canada's ambitious contribution to strengthening the region's security.

The countries are united by in-depth cooperation in the field of security and defense, and Canada is the leading country of the NATO battle group in Latvia. As the ambassador emphasized, security is a common priority of both countries.

The Baltic states are also NATO's external border countries, noted Smiltens, highlighting energy independence from Russia as an important point of conversation between the two politicians. Also, the Speaker of the Saeima mentioned security in the digital environment, emphasizing that the Russian invasion of Ukraine has made cyber security issues even more relevant.

The Canadian ambassador also highlighted education as a priority, calling for cooperation in this area. The parties also discussed the possibilities of strengthening the parliamentary dialogue.

The ambassador arrived in parliament today for an introductory visit.