Strengthening security has become Latvia's most urgent task - Mierina

RIGA - Strengthening security has become Latvia's most urgent task, as the international environment continues to rapidly deteriorate, Saeima Speaker Daiga Mierina (Greens/Farmers) emphasized during Thursday's foreign policy debate in the Saeima.

She pointed out that the war in Ukraine has significantly increased the importance of defense and that NATO member states must move toward greater investment, especially in securing the eastern flank.

Mierina emphasized close cooperation with strategic partners, especially the US, as well as Canada's decision to extend the presence of its troops in Latvia until 2029. In her view, countries in the region must increase their vigilance by jointly strengthening their defense capabilities against hybrid threats in both the Baltic Sea and the airspace.

Mierina named support for Ukraine, which should be maintained at a level of at least 0.25 percent of gross domestic product (GDP), as one of Latvia's central foreign policy priorities. Mierina said that assistance should be targeted, especially at strengthening energy infrastructure. At the same time, she emphasized the need to develop Latvia's military and security industry and reduce bureaucratic obstacles, including by promoting the European Union (EU) initiative on a military Schengen area.

Mierina also stressed the need to strengthen sanctions against aggressor states and their international isolation. In her view, the protection of democracy is becoming increasingly relevant as the Saeima elections approach and the risks of foreign influence increase.

In conclusion, she highlighted the importance of Latvian diplomats in ensuring national security at a time when Latvia is representing its position in the UN Security Council.