Zatlers meets with Biden, Boehner

WASHINGTON -- During an official visit to the United States, Latvian President Valdis Zatlers has met with Vice president Joe Biden and House of Representatives Speaker John Boehner.

Talks focused on bilaterla relations cooperation within NATO, with both leaders thanking the president for Latvia's contributions in Afghanistan, the president's office said in a press release.

Biden reportedly also praised Latvia's foreign policy policy initiatives, with particular emphasis on the country's work within the EU Eastern Partnership.

Boehner asked about political and economic issues in Latvia, and also spoke about the International Monetary Fund’s programme of assistance in Latvia. The two officials also discussed Latvia’s relationship with Russia, as well as energy issues in the region, a press release from the president's office said.

President Zatlers also met with Republican Senator John McCain, who is the ranking member on the Senate Armed Services Committee, inviting him to attend the Rīga Conference that is scheduled to take place in September of this year. Senator McCain confirmed his readiness to take part in the event.

The meetings took place as part of a visit to the country with included stops in Washington, DC and the US state of Michigan.