On 5 August, the President Edgars Rinkēvičs met with the President of the State of Israel Isaac Herzog at the Riga Castle. President Herzog is currently on an official visit to Latvia as part of a tour of all three Baltic states. During the meeting, the two leaders discussed bilateral cooperation between Latvia and Israel, the situation in the Middle East, and Russia’s aggression against Ukraine.
President Rinkēvičs emphasized the active dynamics of the political dialogue between Latvia and Israel, as well as the close ties between the residents and entrepreneurs of both countries. This growing relationship is evidenced by positive trends in economic cooperation and strong collaboration in other areas, particularly in science and research. President Herzog is accompanied on his official visit to Latvia by leaders of Israeli business associations, participating in a Latvia–Israel Business seminar held during the visit. “I am confident that today’s Latvia–Israel Business seminar will provide further impetus for an even more comprehensive partnership in trade and economic cooperation,” said E. Rinkēvičs.
The President of Latvia reaffirmed his solidarity with the people of Israel and condemned the terrorist attacks against Israel and its citizens. “We continue to support Israel’s right to self-defence, in accordance with international law and international humanitarian law. Every effort must be made to ensure the immediate release of all hostages. At the same time, the extremely severe humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip must be addressed by ensuring the safe and unhindered delivery of humanitarian aid and by preventing further civilian casualties. Human suffering must come to an end,” said President Rinkēvičs.
The President of Latvia highlighted the significance of supporting Ukraine in its struggle against Russian aggression. “Support for Ukraine is vital for strengthening European security and ensuring global stability. Latvia encourages Israel to continue providing all necessary forms of assistance to Ukraine, including military support, particularly for Ukraine’s self-defence,” said President Rinkēvičs.
