It is important for UN to defend sovereignty and territorial integrity of countries - Silina

RIGA - It is important that the United Nations (UN) are able to defend international law, the sovereignty and territorial integrity of states, said outgoing Prime Minister Evika Silina (New Unity) today at a meeting with UN Secretary General-designate Rebecca Grynspan in Riga.

The meeting discussed the UN role in strengthening international security, possible solutions to end Russia's war in Ukraine, human rights and energy issues in the context of the Strait of Hormuz, as well as the need to make the work of the organization more effective.

Latvia, as a member of the UN Security Council, takes very seriously its responsibility for the confirmation of the next UN Secretary General, said Silina at the meeting.

The politician said that it was important for Latvia that the UN were able to defend international law. "If international law does not work, our security is also threatened," said Silina.

The discussion focused in particular on Russia's aggression against Ukraine and its impact on European and global security.

Russia's war in Ukraine is a violation of international law and one of the most important tests of the UN ability to fulfil its mission to maintain peace and security in the world, including in Europe, Silina said.