"Latvia highly appreciates Canada's decision to join the Ukrainian drone coalition. With the addition of new Allies, we are getting closer to the goal of delivering 1 million drones to Ukraine. This is a testament to both our close relationship and Canada's commitment to Ukraine," said Sprūds of the move.
Other topics under discussion included defense cooperation between the two countries and the current security situation, including the future direction of cooperation with NATO's enhaced presence in Latvia as the Candian-led battle group transforms from a battalion into a brigade. Since 2017, Canada has been leading the multinational NATO enhanced Forward Presence in Latvia as the 'Framework Nation' as part of Operation Reassurance.
Sprūds is visiting Canada on a working visit from March 5 to 8 to attend the Ottawa Security Conference and participate in several bilateral meetings.
As previously reported, on February 14, along with Latvia, Ukraine, Denmark, Estonia, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Germany and Sweden signed a letter of intent to join the drone coalition. A day later on February 15, the United Kingdom also climbed aboard.
Latvia will allocate at least 10 million euros per year for the development of the drone coalition. The ambition of the member states in the drone coalition is to provide 1 million drones for Ukraine's needs.
Speaking at the Ottawa Security Conference, Minister Blair also reaffirmed Canada’s support for Ukraine, highlighting the Agreement on security cooperation between Canada and Ukraine signed by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on February 24, 2024.
To further support Ukraine’s efforts to liberate its territory, Minister Blair also announced that the Government of Canada will provide funding to Canadian innovators to develop concepts that could help Ukraine move through and clear heavily defended minefields. Successful applicants could receive up to $1 million to develop their concepts, and an opportunity as early as next year to demonstrate their technology to military experts.
