Train connection between Vilnius and Riga will strengthen economic ties between both countries - Silina

RIGA - The new train route connecting the capitals of Latvia and Lithuania will further strengthen the friendship and economic ties between the two countries, as well as open up new travel opportunities for our residents, said Latvian Prime Minister Evika Silina (New Unity) as she welcomed Lithuanian Prime Minister Ingrida Simonyte in Riga for the opening of the new train route.

According to Silina, the route also complements the existing air connections between Latvia and Lithuania.

"This joyful event will further strengthen our friendship. Lithuania is Latvia's biggest partner in both trade and tourism - every fifth tourist in Latvia is from Lithuania. The neighboring country's residents also use Riga Airport and airBaltic, which operates 38 flights a week to Lithuanian airports. Therefore, the new rail route complements the existing air connections and creates new opportunities for tourism and economic cooperation," said Silina.

The Latvian politician invited Lithuanian passengers to enjoy Latvian nature, culture and visit Riga's Old Town and Christmas markets.

At a working lunch, the Latvian and Lithuanian heads of government discussed joint projects in the fields of energy and transport and the security situation in the region, as well as further political, financial and military support to Ukraine.