According to Kristersson, in a conversation with the Prime Minister of Latvia, they discussed cooperation in the Scandinavian and Baltic regions, the European Union and NATO. Kristersson thanked Latvia for supporting Sweden’s accession to NATO. They also discussed common security issues, noting the potential for increased economic cooperation between Latvia and Sweden.
The Swedish Prime Minister recalled that he was active in politics in the 1980s, when solidarity with the “brave freedom fighters” in Latvia and other Baltic countries was an important part of Sweden’s political identity at the time. He stressed that restoring diplomatic relations between Latvia and Sweden following the collapse of the Soviet Union was an important priority.
“Sweden was one of the first countries to establish a diplomatic presence in the Baltics, demonstrating our commitment to freedom on the shores of the Baltic Sea. Today we continue to strengthen bilateral relations between Latvia and Sweden,” Kristersson said.
He noted that supporting Ukraine’s struggle for freedom is a priority for both Sweden and Latvia. In the face of intense Russian air and missile attacks on Ukrainian citizens and critical infrastructure, EU countries and NATO allies should explore all available options to provide Ukraine with more ammunition and air defense capabilities. He also mentioned the approved US aid package for Ukraine, which is a welcome demonstration of US commitment to Ukraine. He emphasized that the security of Ukraine is also the security of the EU and the United States.
The Swedish Prime Minister said that the Baltic Sea region is suffering from Russian hybrid warfare, including cyber attacks, disinformation, forced migration, and attacks on critical infrastructure. He noted that both Latvia and Sweden take these threats seriously.
“Sweden is ready to take responsibility for collective deterrence and defense. Several months ago, I announced that Sweden was considering sending a reduced battalion to Latvia. […] We are ready to contribute to NATO air defense and European air defense,” Kristersson said.
He said that on Thursday morning the government had instructed the Swedish armed forces to plan and prepare a Swedish reduced mechanized battalion for deployment to Latvia. The first mechanized units are expected to arrive in Latvia early next year. The Swedish mechanized battalion will also include CV90 infantry fighting vehicles and Leopard 2 tanks.
“People like the idea of participating in a mission in Latvia. There is great interest in Sweden and they have a clear motivation to participate and contribute. Together with our Latvian friends and colleagues, we are making the Nordic and Baltic region and the whole of NATO much safer,” he emphasized Kristersson.
The Prime Minister of Latvia said that Russia’s aggression once morest Ukraine in 2022 has radically changed the security situation in Europe. She emphasized that Latvia appreciates Sweden’s willingness to contribute to collective deterrence and defense. The security of the Baltic Sea is now more important than before, Silina noted.
“We greatly appreciate Sweden’s decision to contribute to the NATO Allied Battle Group. We are honored and ready to meet. We work together for our shared security. We look forward to working closely with Sweden as we prepare to participate in the upcoming summit “NATO in Washington in July. Latvia has four priorities – strengthening deterrence and defense, implementing regional defense plans, supporting the development of the military industry and containing Russia,” the Latvian Prime Minister said.
She added that Latvia is interested in attracting more Swedish investment, especially in projects in the port industry, renewable energy, digital and military industries. Silina emphasized that Russia does not give up its imperialist ambitions, so the joint development of military potential and industry is becoming increasingly important.
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2024-04-29 06:32:43
