Braže and Kulbergs discuss bigger US military presence in Latvia with US congressman
Foreign Minister Baiba Braže and Prime Minister Andris Kulbergs met US Congressman José Luis Correa in Riga. Talks focused on the US military presence, investment, security and support for Ukraine.
On Thursday in Riga, the foreign minister and Prime Minister Andris Kulbergs met US House of Representatives member José Luis Correa and a delegation of US Congressional staff. The meetings were reported to the LETA agency by the Foreign Ministry and by the prime minister's communications adviser, Elīna Šverna.
Security and military presence
At the Foreign Ministry, discussions centred on increasing the US military presence and investment in Latvia, cooperation in new technologies, border security, the fight against illegal migration and support for Ukraine. The minister thanked Congress for its long-standing support for the security of the Baltic states and highlighted the role of the Baltic Security Initiative in strengthening regional defence capabilities. She stressed that US involvement in European security and a strong transatlantic partnership are essential preconditions for a strong NATO.
The sides also discussed hybrid threats from Russia and Belarus, reinforcement of Latvia's eastern border, the instrumentalisation of migration, and military cooperation between Russia and Iran.
Kulbergs called the US Latvia's strategic ally and said Latvia highly values the American military presence. According to him, Latvia is committed to continuing its own investment in the security of NATO's eastern border. The prime minister also outlined the results of Operation "Vilkatis" and the situation of residents in the eastern border area. Correa confirmed that NATO remains a strong alliance.
Economy and Ukraine
The talks covered economic cooperation in energy, artificial intelligence, drones and other dual-use technologies, as well as the defence industry. The defence industry and the film sector were named as promising areas. President Edgars Rinkēvičs' recent visit to California was also welcomed.
Both politicians stressed the need to continue supporting Ukraine and to maintain sanctions on Russia. The delivery of Ukrainian grain to world markets was also discussed.
The delegation of US Congressional staff is visiting Latvia from 7 to 10 October. The programme includes meetings with officials, members of the Saeima and experts, as well as visits to innovative companies and military sites.
