E. Siliņa: US contribution to Latvia's defence opens up opportunities to strengthen economic cooperation

"The leadership of the United States of America (USA) in strengthening transatlantic security and contribution to Latvia's defence open up opportunities for increased economic cooperation and partnership between the United States and Latvia", said Prime Minister Evika Siliņa during the meeting with the delegation of the US House of Representatives Committee on Appropriations led by Congressman Tome Cole at the Cabinet of Ministers on Wednesday, 3 July.

"The visit of the US Congressmen to Latvia enhances political, economic and defence cooperation between the countries," said E. Siliņa.

"Latvia and the United States enjoy close friendship and strategic partnership. The US leadership in strengthening NATO and transatlantic security opens up opportunities for our countries to further develop economic cooperation. We already invest more than 3% of our GDP in defence, and the US military industry is instrumental to developing Latvia's defence capabilities. We have purchased the US-made HIMARS and Naval Strike Missile weapon systems, as well as Black Hawk helicopters. The US investment is always welcome in Latvia. We have provided the 'green corridor' for large investors to simplify bureaucratic procedures. We can expand our economic cooperation not only in the defence and military industries, but also in the digital, financial, energy and other sectors," emphasizes the Prime Minister.

The officials addressed the US-Latvia cooperation in the fields of security, defence and economy, as well as the support to Ukraine. E. Siliņa expressed her gratitude for the US military presence in Latvia, as well as for the Baltic Security Initiative, which aims to reinforce the defence capability of the Baltic States. The officials also focused on the upcoming NATO Summit in Washington, the need to strengthen the Alliance's deterrence and defence capabilities and to counter the threats posed by Russia.

The delegation of the US Congressmen is led by Tom Cole, Chairman of the House Committee on Appropriations, and also comprises Congressmen Mario Diaz-Balart, Chuck Fleischmann, Chuck Edwards and Jake Ellzey. The House Committee on Appropriations plays a key role in decisions on the US budget, including aid to the Baltic States and Ukraine.

Photos of the meeting