According to a release by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Latvia, the Ministers exchanged views on Russia’s aggression in Ukraine, and the strong response measures taken by NATO and the European Union through reinforcing sanctions against Russia and continuing their assistance to Ukraine in every possible way.
Rinkēvičs noted that while EU Member States had accomplished much in providing practical assistance, Ukraine needed much broader support, including deliveries of new military equipment. More robust sanctions must also be imposed in the energy sector, and dependence on Russian gas and oil must be reduced, the Minister underlined, adding that every effort must be made to enable Ukraine to stand up to Russia’s aggression.
Edgars Rinkēvičs made note of Germany’s indispensable role in the strengthening of European security; he welcomed the support provided by Germany and its military presence in the eastern flank of NATO.
Rinkēvičs said that Latvia had become a host country for Russia’s independent media in exile, and wanted to continue close cooperation with Germany in promoting media freedom and fighting disinformation.
According to the Minister, Latvia's relationship with Germany is excellent. Germany is a dependable ally and friend, Edgars Rinkēvičs said.
Warm welcome, @ABaerbock, to Riga, discussed bilateral German- Latvian cooperation, support to #Ukraine, need to establish permanent NATO forward defence presence in the Alliance’s Eastern flank 🇱🇻 🇩🇪 pic.twitter.com/d5fSU4kjNg
— Edgars Rinkēvičs (@edgarsrinkevics) April 20, 2022
