Russia is the biggest threat to Europe - Mierina

RIGA - The veil of illusion has fallen - Russia is Europe's biggest threat, Saeima Speaker Daiga Mierina (Greens/Farmers) said during a meeting with Wlodzimierz Czarzasty, Marshal of the Sejm of Poland, in Warsaw.

As LETA was told at the Saeima press office, Mierina has arrived in Warsaw on an introductory visit. Czarzasty has been in office since November last year.

According to the Saeima press office, Latvia and Poland have close and strategic cooperation in all areas, especially defense and security. The Saeima speaker highlighted Poland's contribution to strengthening the security of the region, as well as to the NATO Multinational Brigade in Latvia and the Baltic air policing mission.

Together we are protecting our external borders, those of NATO and the European Union (EU), said Mierina, underlining investment in defense and close cooperation between the countries on border protection. "In light of hybrid threats and the situation at the border, it is important to continue the close coordination of our services," the Saeima speaker said.

In a discussion on regional and economic cooperation, the officials agreed that speakers' potential in foreign policy has not been fully utilized. Mierina highlighted Poland's support for Polish schools in Latvia, as well as the potential for Polish banks to enter Latvia. This would strengthen economic cooperation between the countries at a time when regional resilience is particularly important. Czarzasty invited Latvia to participate in a high-level security conference next year on May 10 and 11.

While discussing transatlantic cooperation, Mierina noted the significance of US military presence in Europe, including the Baltic states. The US and close transatlantic cooperation are indispensable for both European security and support for Ukraine, as, in addition to allied forces, they serve as a key deterrent against Russia.