Vejonis underlines Baltic support to Ukraine

During his state visit to Ukraine, Latvian President Raimonds Vejonis underlined the importance of Latvia’s support to the country. 

Regarding his visit to Ukraine, Vejonis told BNS that it has been another opportunity to prove Latvia is ready to provide any kind of support

He added Latvia will not allow the interest of Europe and the world about Ukraine to weaken.

"There are new challenges,” said Vejonis. “The refugee crisis and Syrian crisis, that may have been created to shift attention. 

Still, Latvia and other Baltic states hold Ukraine on the agenda, and it is very important there are advocates defending Ukraine's interests in the European Union and NATO. and other organizations.”

The president said any common experience Latvia can share with Ukraine is of the utmost importance, and pointed to the Latvian National Armed Forces strengthening the Ukrainian army with the help of chaplains and psychologists.

"Such assistance is not considerable in terms of financing, but what they are doing is a great job - such experts' experience is very significant," he said. 

Vejonis also noted Latvia supports different funding on NATO and EU levels, which provide assistance to Ukraine. 

Latvia also continues to provide rehabilitation to the injured Ukrainian troops and children with the help of local governments. 

Regarding local government assistance, Vejonis outlined the central Latvian town of Ogre, which has active cooperation with Ukraine's Chernihiv city. Ogre has also organised camps for Ukrainian children.

"Of course, we are not as rich as the developed countries, but our contribution is very significant and it is appreciated by Ukraine. 

We also speak the language they understand. It is our advantage as it makes easier to communicate,” Vejonis concluded.

Latvian President Raimonds Vejonis began his visit to Ukraine on October 27.