During the meeting, the high-ranking officials mainly discussed further actions in strengthening collective defense and support to Ukraine to counter Russian aggression.
The NATO Secretary General appreciated Latvia's contribution to strengthening national, regional and collective security, as well as its support or Ukraine.
Rutte said: “You spend almost 3 percent of GDP on defence, you host a multinational battlegroup where Allies work side by side to defend NATO's eastern flank, as well as military exercises to ensure that Latvian and Allied armed forces maintain a high level of readiness and interoperability,” at the joint press conference with Prime Minister Siliņa.
Meanwhile the Latvian Prime Minister called for close cooperation with the European Union, including in matters of the development of the military industry – though she did also draw attention to the fact that according to the latest estimates, Latvia is already spending more than 3% of GDP on defense.
"As Russia's war in Ukraine continues and conflicts in the Middle East escalate, NATO's role in Latvia's security is more important than ever. That is why we are working together to strengthen the deterrence and defense of the entire alliance. Latvia is a reliable NATO partner. Currently, we invest more than 3% of our gross domestic product in defense, and our soldiers participate in NATO missions elsewhere in the world," said Siliņa in comments reported by the Latvian government.
"Without convincing support for Ukraine in its fight against Russian aggression, peace is impossible not only in Europe, but throughout the world. After the meeting with the new NATO Secretary General, I am convinced that the alliance is in safe hands and will become even stronger and more united under his leadership," said Siliņa.
Mark Rutte assumed the post of NATO Secretary General on October 1, succeeding Jens Stoltenberg in the position.
From October 16 to October 18, the Prime Minister is participating in the summit of the European Union with the Gulf States and the European Council in Brussels.
