Latvian defense minister to strengthen transatlantic relations on working visit to US

RIGA - Defense Minister Andris Spruds (Progressives) will be in the United States on a working visit until Friday to meet with members of the US Congress and discuss transatlantic relations and bilateral cooperation, LETA was told at the press office of the Defense Ministry.

In his meetings with US congressmen, Spruds will emphasize the US' role in strengthening European and Baltic security and thank the US for its military presence in the Baltic region and contribution to Latvian security.

During his visit, Spruds is scheduled to participate in a discussion on current defense matters organized by the German Marshall Fund to inform about Latvia's security challenges and defense policy.

The defense minister will also participate in the Munich Leaders Forum and a panel on Russia's aggression against Ukraine and ways to strengthen Ukraine's ability to defend its sovereignty and promote sustainable peace in the region.

The US is a long-standing strategic partner and ally of Latvia, playing an important role in strengthening Latvia's security. The relationship between the two countries is based on shared values and a common understanding of democracy.