Madam Speaker of the Saeima!
Honourable members of the Chapter of Orders!
Ladies and Gentlemen!
Dear viewers of Latvian Television!
Dear recipients of the highest state awards!
I am truly delighted to be here with you today in the Riga Castle and to congratulate you on the 107th anniversary of our Latvia!
At this moment, here in the Riga Castle, one can feel a familiar yet special sense of emotion: joy, warmth, pride and also excitement. At the moment when the highest state honours are presented, we have the opportunity to reflect on who we are. To recognise how rich and how strong Latvia truly is.
We are living in a noisy and testing time – a time when we often hear that everything is going badly. But that is not quite the case; it is certainly not only bad. Today, upon entering the Festive Hall and seeing all of you, it is clear that things are very good indeed. All around us we can see how many strong people Latvia has. How much talent, how much courage, selflessness and civic dedication there is. We are rich in warmth of heart, strength of spirit, and the selfless commitment to improving the lives of the people of Latvia.
Today, together, we honour individuals who represent outstanding mastery in their respective fields. These are people whose talent and work ethic have earned wide international recognition. These are people whose achievements have had an impact on entire Latvian society. And I am sure that children are also watching this ceremony – children who will see, here in this hall, their new superheroes. Heroes they will one day wish to emulate!
Each of our country’s highest state decorations was created in its own historical period and bears its own motto. The Order of the Three Stars – “Through hardships to the stars”. The Order of Viesturs – “Be strong and fight”. The Cross of Recognition – “For people of honour”. Within these mottos lies a conviction about constant self-improvement and faith in a better future. Each order is a symbol of great depth and meaning. Into it one can place almost the entirety of human existence – dreams and hopes, goals and conscientious work, the overcoming of difficulties and outstanding achievements.
I often say that we do not say thank you enough. Today I shall not make that mistake, and I hope that none of the greeters will make it either! As President of Latvia, and on behalf of the Chapter of Orders, I extend to each and every one of you my warmest thanks! Thank you for your honourable work, carried out with the best of conscience and ability. Thank you to our teachers, scientists, and medical professionals! Thank you to the people of music, art, culture, and theatre! Thank you to our linguists and community service workers, to our athletes, soldiers, border guards, police officers, and firefighters!
My thanks also go to your families and loved ones!
And thank you to our friends and allies abroad!
Each of us, in our own way and in our own place, together shapes our Latvia!
Distinguished guests!
There is still much for us to accomplish together for a better future and a better Latvia. Let us work together in a spirit of respect! Let us cooperate!
Let us listen to one another, truly listen!
May we have the will, the confidence, and the determination to continue doing all that lies within our power, with clarity of mind and openness of heart!
Wishing you all a joyful and bright national holiday!
Long live Latvia!
