Ottawa, 14 May 2022 (TDI): The Canadian Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, met with Krišjānis Kariņš, the Prime Minister of Latvia, who was on a two-day visit to Canada to enhance defense cooperation and bilateral ties.
The Prime Minister of Latvia visited Canada from 10 to 12 May. During his visit, he called on the Canadian Prime Minister to discuss War in Ukraine and the security situation in Eastern Europe.
The two leaders discussed further coordination and military support to Ukraine as the country continues to fight the Russian invasion. Moreover, they highlighted the importance of coordination among members of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization.
In addition, the Prime Ministers discussed ways to strengthen NATO’s deterrence and defense measures in Eastern Europe, particularly in the Baltic region. Furthermore, they expressed their support for Finland joining the NATO Alliance.
Meanwhile, Justin Trudeau announced that Canada will deploy a Canadian Armed Forces general officer and six staff officers to NATO’s Multinational Division North Headquarters, based in Ādaži, Latvia.
The Baltic country achieved independence as the Soviet Union disintegrated. The country joined NATO and later the EU to move closer to the West and deter the Russian threat.
However, since the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Latvia and the other Baltic countries have felt additional threats to their security and have called for increased NATO presence and military aid.
Bilateral Relations
Likewise, the leaders also addressed issues of bilateral relations. They expressed that the strong Canada-Latvia partnership is based on common values and a commitment to the rules-based international system.
Moreover, the security issues of the broader Baltic region are also of mutual interest. Also. they agreed to coordinate for the upcoming Canada-Baltics 3+1 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, which Canada will host in June.
Previously, the Canadian Prime Minister visited Latvia in March 2022. Canada was the first G7 country to recognize Latvia in 1991. Since then, both countries have maintained diplomatic, cultural, trade, and military relations.
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