The first to offer is congratulations was United States Secretary of state John Kerry who released a statement November 17 saying:
"On behalf of President Obama and the American people, I congratulate Latvia on the 98th anniversary of your independence on November 18.
Latvia is a strong partner and ally of the United States.. The United States stands firmly with Latvia and all our NATO Allies to promote peace, freedom, and unity in Europe and around the world... The United States wishes you and your citizens all the best on this important and special day."
President Raimonds Vejonis posted a message on Twitter urging people to "continue together to form our ideal Latvia" where people can "live in peace and plenty".
Daudz laimes, Latvija! #18novembris pic.twitter.com/0j1DuPrrRv
— Valsts prezidents (@Rigas_pils) November 18, 2016
Latvian Foreign Minister Edgars Rinkevics included no fewer than three flags on his celebratory tweet.
Today Latvia & Latvians all around the world celebrate the 98th Anniversary of the Proclamation of Independence!Happy Birthday Latvia!??????
— Edgars Rinkēvičs (@edgarsrinkevics) November 18, 2016
Lithuania's Foreign Minister wasted no time in offering his congratulations to his neighbor.
Sveicam māsu Latviju Proklamēšanas dienā!
— Linas Linkevicius (@LinkeviciusL) November 18, 2016
Tev mūžam dzīvot, #Latvija,
Būt stiprai, plaukstošai un daiļai!@Latvian_MFA @edgarsrinkevics
You can follow many other independence day postings by following the #LV98 hashtag.
Possibly the most charming well-wishers were the people of Edinburgh.
Hi ! We hope you like and share our video ! #Latvijai98 https://t.co/tc3OuHwRpV
— esseqtrera (@schiribrizzola) November 18, 2016
As usual the day will be marked by a military parade, a speech by the President, a ceremonial sitting of parliament and numerous commemorations across the country.
In a newer tradition, the Staro Riga illuminations, which began November 17, will continue over the weekend in the capital, Riga.
Many of the events can be watched online via the LSM Re:Play website (livestream may not be viewable in all territories).
