Sanctions pressure against Russia must continue - Saeima speaker

RIGA - The sanctions pressure against Russia must be continued, Saeima Speaker Daiga Mierina (Greens/Farmers) said at a meeting with US Congressman Andrew Harris, LETA was told at the Saeima press office.

Also meeting with Harris were other members of the Saeima Presidium - Vice Speaker Zanda Kalnina-Lukasevica (New Unity) and Antonina Nenaseva (Progressives), Saeima Secretary Edvards Smiltens (United List) and Saeima Deputy Secretary Janis Grasbergs (National Alliance).

Stressing the significance of the Baltic defense line, Mierina said that US support to this defense initiative is very important because Latvia is protecting the external border of the European Union (EU) and NATO. She thanked the US Congress for its strong support for the Baltic security initiative and stressed its importance for further improving military capabilities.

Describing the geopolitical situation in the region, Mierina noted that Russia's objectives have not changed - to subjugate Ukraine and divide its allies.

The members of the Saeima Presidium stressed at the meeting with the US congressman that European allies must play an increasingly important role, but that continued US support is crucial for the security of Ukraine and Europe as a whole, as Russia sees the US as a deterrent.

Ukraine deserves and Europe needs a just and lasting peace, which the members of the Latvian lawmakers believe is also important for transatlantic security in the long term. Close cooperation between all partners and like-minded people is essential to achieve this goal.

Economic cooperation was also discussed during the meeting, with emphasis on projects between the two countries' defense sectors and US investment in Latvia. The Saeima members stressed the need to invest in high-tech solutions, such as drone production.