Government plans to strengthen national security in context of transatlantic relations

RIGA - Over the next couple of years the Latvian government plans to strengthen national security in the context of transatlantic relations, according to an action plan drafted by Prime Minister Evika Silina's (New Unity) government.

The Silina-led government intends to bolster national security in the long term by securing allied presence in the region, implementing NATO's strategic concept, participating in the development of the EU's security and defense policy, promoting member states' resilience and defense capabilities in addition to the development of NATO's capabilities, building closer cooperation with Latvia's transatlantic partners and promoting EU-NATO cooperation.

The government plans to develop a focused cooperation with leaders and policy makers in NATO member states to ensure NATO's deterrence policy and collective defense and the long-term presence of NATO forces in Latvia. It also plans to maintain an ongoing dialogue with allies that are planning or already participating in the reinforcement of NATO forces in the region.

Latvia will maintain a dialogue on Russia as the main threat to the security of NATO allies. It is planned to provide support and raise awareness with allies on the process of NATO forces' adaptation and the strengthening of deterrence and defense capabilities.

In cooperation with the Defense Ministry, the government plans to promote initiatives and support EU decisions to strengthen defense industries and military production. It also plans to strengthen strategic cooperation with the US in the areas of security policy, economic and financial cooperation, European energy security, cyber security, strategic communications, education, media and freedom of expression.

Latvia also intends to strengthen strategic cooperation with Canada, particularly in security and defense, as well as to maintain a regular dialogue with NATO and EU member states on strengthening complementary defense capabilities.

Over the next two years, the government plans to provide comprehensive support to Ukraine in its fight against Russian aggression, including political, military, economic, financial, development cooperation and humanitarian assistance, as well as political and expert-level support for Ukraine's reform process and integration into the EU and NATO.

The government will also continue to support Ukraine's reconstruction and economic recovery. Latvia will support Ukraine in holding Russia and its officials accountable, including through the International Criminal Court and the creation of a special tribunal for the crime of aggression against Ukraine.

The government will continue to be involved in the cases brought by Ukraine before the International Court of Justice on the application of the UN Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of Genocide and the European Court of Human Rights. It also plans to pursue a consistent sanctions policy against Russia and Belarus and to promote Russia's international isolation.

To this end, the government intends to engage in discussions with international organizations and institutions, as well as in multilateral and bilateral negotiations with countries, emphasizing political support for Ukraine, including by advocating further international isolation of Russia. Latvia will continue to make contributions to the EU, NATO and other international organizations in support of Ukraine.

As an EU member, Latvia plans to support the provision of military assistance to Ukraine, promote the adoption and implementation of the EU Ukraine Instrument, as well as the provision of macro-financial assistance and funding for Ukraine's EU-integration and reconstruction.

It is planned to support Ukraine's economic recovery by temporarily suspending all tariff and trade defense measures until the Russian aggression is over.