Some parliamentary faction leaders want more information on defense development plans - Rinkevics

RIGA - Some leaders of the Saeima factions want more information on the defense development plans, Latvian President Edgars Rinkevics told reporters at a press conference on Wednesday.

In September and October, the president met with the heads of the Saeima factions to discuss the political situation in the country, the government's work, as well as the progress of his legislative initiatives.

Rinkevics noted that several faction leaders stressed the need for more information on defense development plans, including the situation on the eastern border and anti-mobility measures. He pointed out that this information was important for both MPs and the public.

According to the president, such meetings are an opportunity to hear both the position and the opposition's perspective on political processes and legislative priorities.

"It is also an opportunity to discuss the progress of the legislative initiatives that I have tabled. These initiatives are at different stages of consideration and I am grateful for the constructive attitude," Rinkevics said.

Other topical issues, including the Istanbul Convention, distance learning regulation and measures to cut red tape, were also discussed during the meeting with the heads of the Saeima factions.

"This spring there were active discussions on cutting red tape, but now there are other hot topics. Although the government continues to work on reducing bureaucracy, I think there are still things that should be highlighted," said the president.

He stressed that the political forces recognize that the elections are approaching, but in his view the campaign has started too early. Rinkevics pointed out that there were many issues to be addressed. He also wished each party to work in such a way that there would be something to show the voters in terms of accomplishments, not just promises.

He pointed out that meetings with members of the parliamentary factions were planned for the beginning of the year, in January and February.