Rinkevics: Various radical forces use March 16 to escalate tension in Latvia

RIGA - Unfortunately, over the past few years Latvian Legion Day [March 16] events have been used by various radical organizations to build tension in Latvia, not to express their ideological beliefs, believes Foreign Minister Edgars Rinkevics (pictured) (ZRP).

The minister declined to comment in detail information provided by the law enforcement authorities, but pointed out that it is no different from that of the previous years.

"It is clear that radical organizations use this day to escalate tension in Latvia instead of expressing ideological views. Therefore it is our task to do everything possible to prevent such activities, and I hope that our authorities will be able handle this task," said the minister.

As reported, over the last few days, Interior Minister Rihards Kozlovskis (ZRP) has declared several foreigners, including Russian citizens, on Latvia's list of personae non grata.

Kozlovskis' advisor Daiga Holma informed LETA that, in cooperation with neighbor state authorities, the Interior Ministry will make sure that these people do not enter Latvia.

655 foreigners were included in Latvia's list of personae non grata last year, in January-February 2012 - 116. At the moment, 5,522 persons are banned from entering Latvia.