The only threat in our region may come from Russia - Karins

RIGA - At the time when Russia is heading a brutal war in Ukraine, it is understandable that the only threat in the Baltic and Northern European region may come from Russia, said Latvian Prime Minister Krisjanis Karins (New Unity) at the press conference after a meeting with Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson today.

Sweden and Finland are on their way to NATO, and Latvia has supported their applications from the first day. Karins also hope that the remaining two of the 30 NATO countries - Turkey and Hungary - will also support Sweden's and Finland's accession to NATO.

Kristersson said that NATO applications have been important both for Sweden and Finland, and Sweden appreciates Latvia's immediate and overall support.

"We have to think about defense on a rather gloomy mood because we have to remember our friends in Ukraine and the reason why cooperation should be increased is unpleasant," said Kristersson.

"We see the opportunity for the Baltic Sea region to become a part of a unified alliance, and now this is the last moment for Sweden and Finland to become a part of NATO. The geographic location and what Russia is doing in Ukraine are clear reasons for the necessity for Sweden and Finland to join the alliance," said Kristersson.

The prime ministers also discussed cooperation in military industry. Karins underscored that cooperation between both countries is excellent, but there are always aspects that can be improved.

The prime ministers concluded that transport is a sector important for both countries, thinking about how to resume the ferry between Riga and Stokholm.