We will only defend our independence with modern, battle capable and strong armed forces - Vejonis

RIGA - In his greeting to the nation in Lacplesis Day today, Latvian President Raimonds Vejonis said that Latvia will only be able to safeguard its independence with a modern, battle capable and strong armed forces.

Vejonis said that November 11 is when Latvia honors its heroes - soldiers who gave their lives for the nation's independence and freedom.

''Thanks to their bravery and love for their nation, they were able to defeat a larger enemy to win Latvia's independence,'' the president said.

He also called on Latvian residents to value the price of freedom.

''We must understand that Latvia will only be able to safeguard its independence with a modern, battle capable and strong armed forces,'' he said, while emphasizing that Latvian soldiers of today are prepared to defend their country with their lives.