President of Latvia Edgars Rinkēvičs opened the 75th Congress of the American Latvian Association in Washington on 18 September.
In his speech, President reminded everyone that American Latvian Association was founded in Washington in 1951, when Latvia was under occupation. “United States of America is celebrating its 250th anniversary this year. Next year will mark 105 years since establishing of diplomatic relations between Latvia and the US. These milestones resemble the lasting friendship between our countries and people – a link created, strengthened and protected by a long line of generations,” Edgars Rinkēvičs pointed out to the delegates.
“You have undertaken significant efforts to strengthen the transatlantic ties, facilitate Latvia’s integration into NATO and build close relations between our countries. This mission, today, has a new, even more important purpose. Russian aggression against Ukraine has clearly shown that democracy and security cannot be taken for granted. That is why Latvia is consistently building up its defence capabilities. And continues to provide crucial assistance to Ukraine. And also plays active role in NATO’s collective security arrangements,” President of Latvia stressed.
Edgars Rinkēvičs thanked the American Latvian Association for its enormous contribution in raising the awareness about the importance of the security of Latvia, Baltics and the whole transatlantic region for the US in the modern world. "Direct cooperation with the US is indispensable. Latvia must be the subject of conversations in the US constantly, every day," President underlined.
Edgars Rinkēvičs strongly praised American Latvians for their initiative and visible presence. “Latvians in America, who want to find out more about what is happening in Latvia, can always reach out to you for additional information, discuss topics, exchange views or ask for help. Without ALA, there would be significantly fewer polling stations and the turnout for Saeima elections would be much lower. Every voice matters for Latvia,” President of Latvia said.
President thanked all members of the American Latvian Association, volunteers, local associations and organisations that contribute their time and energy to keeping the Latvian spirit of unity going in the United States of America.
Background:
American Latvian Association (ALA) was founded in Washington on 24 February 1951. For 75 years it has been the main organisation for Latvians in America. In its first years, around 200 different organisations and 7,000 individuals joined the Organisation and became members of ALA, facilitating the development of Latvian organisations across America. Jūlijs Feldmanis (1889—1953), lawyer and diplomat, ambassador of independent Latvia to the Unites States, became one of the founders of ALA and presided over its founding congress.
ALA evolved into one of the most influential Latvian diaspora organisations and it relentlessly, vigorously supported restoration of Latvia’s national independence. It primarily focused on four overlapping key objectives: to promote restoration of Latvia’s national independence, promote sustainability of Latvian community in exile, protect and nurture Latvian culture, and help fellow Latvians in need.
