Dear Mr Vērzemnieks, distinguished guests, and above all, participants in the clean-up of the consequences of the Chernobyl nuclear accident!
In two days, on 26 April, we will mark 40 years since the largest nuclear accident of its time in the world and in Europe – the Chernobyl nuclear power plant disaster. Regardless of how young or old people were at the time, those who lived through it remember that it was a time of uncertainty, half-truths, and at times outright lies, as the Soviet system was, in many ways, unprepared for such a tragedy. Only a few days later did the first sparse official statements appear, at a point when there were already clear indications that something terrible had occurred. What happened then is still felt today in Ukraine and neighbouring countries – radioactive contamination that will persist for decades and centuries, uninhabitable territories, and tens of thousands of people forced to leave their homes.
Many people here in Latvia were directly affected. More than 6,000 Latvian residents were mobilised to help in dealing with the aftermath of the Chernobyl nuclear power plant disaster – medical personnel, engineers, soldiers and workers who were ordered to go, often without knowing where they were going or for how long. Many of them later faced serious health consequences. Of those six and a half thousand people, half have not lived to see this day, as various diagnoses and illnesses have, tragically, taken their lives prematurely. This is a moment when we honour both those buried here in Latvia and all those who lost their lives while dealing with the aftermath or who later died as a result of it.
However, this is also a day that reminds us that nothing is truly over. Sadly, Russia’s current aggression against Ukraine poses a serious threat to several nuclear power plants. From time to time, we have witnessed direct attacks on Chernobyl itself at the beginning of the war, as well as on the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant. We must remember what happened 40 years ago, because at any moment not only technological but also human-caused catastrophes may occur.
This is a moment when I would like to express my sincere gratitude to all of you, those present here and all those involved in liquidating the consequences of the Chernobyl disaster, for what you have done. I would also like to thank all the medical professionals who care for you on a daily basis. We have heard today about the issues that still need to be addressed, and I am confident that the government and the Saeima will listen and take action on those matters that remain unresolved.
Today, as we remember those who lost their lives and express our gratitude to you, let us also recall that this was not only a nuclear power plant accident. It was a time that significantly contributed to the collapse of the Soviet empire of lies, because after this, it was no longer possible to conceal the truth. It is a moment to remember today, and to do everything possible to ensure that, as we develop modern technologies, we do not forget the risks involved.
Thank you!
