Metsola, a Maltese MEP elected in January, praised Latvia's history of democracy in the context of the Saeima's centenary celebrations and noted that Latvia's consistent warnings about Russia's intentions had proven accurate.
"You are very well aware of what we are dealing with. Latvia has been warning other countries about Russia for a long time, and Latvia was right," said Metsola.
Metsola told deputies that since the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the center of gravity of decision-making in the field of European defense and security has been in the Baltic region. And Latvia's experience and leadership will be decisive in the next steps to overcome threats to our democratic values and the well-being of the European Union, she said.
Delighted to be in Latvia today as @Jekaba11 celebrates 100 years.
— Roberta Metsola (@EP_President) October 27, 2022
A centenary of democracy, respect of human dignity, freedom.
Latvia is a symbol of hope, of transformation, of resilience. Representing qualities & values that Europe stands for.
🇪🇺🇱🇻 https://t.co/KZxRHAdz3G
Today, Latvia is a leading country in the European Union, overcoming and resisting the spread of Kremlin propaganda and hybrid threats. Similarly, Latvia's experience and leadership will be decisive in the next steps that Europe must take in order to overcome the serious threats to our democratic values and the well-being of the European Union, she suggested.
While in Latvia, Metsola will also meet with Prime Minister Krišjānis Kariņš, President Egils Levits, and will participate in a discussion about young people in the European Union.