US will help to strengthen security of Latvia's sea border - Pabriks

RIGA - In the nearest time, the US will help to strengthen security of Latvia's sea border, Latvia's Defense Minister Artis Pabriks (For Development/For) said in a Twitter post, commenting on last week's visit of US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin in Riga.

Pabriks said that during the visit, there were discussion on increasing US military presence in military exercise, which is important for Latvia. 

The minister also noted that the White House, the US Senate and the Congress agree on continuing the support for security, demonstrating the deep awareness of the situation in Latvia and the region.

The Latvian Defense Ministry did not comment to LETA on how exactly the US will help to strengthen security of Latvia's sea boarder, and did not comment whether this is related with the plans to purchase coastal defense systems.

As reported, the Defense Ministry's priorities regarding the development of missile systems include coastal defense against navy ships, medium-range air defense systems, and artillery rocket systems.

Regarding coastal defense systems, the Defense Ministry has received offers from several potential suppliers. The ministry has analyzed the offers and requested additional information.