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‘By deploying NATO battle group in our region the alliance has demonstrated its capacity to defend itself against any aggression,’ Speaker Ināra Mūrniece stressed on Monday, 19 June, at the Saeima, during a meeting with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg, who arrived to welcome the enhanced Forward Presence Battlegroup deployed to Latvia.

The Speaker of the Saeima thanked NATO for deploying the multinational battlegroup, which sends a very powerful message of solidarity and unity among allies. The arrival of NATO forces is a strong reassurance for the Latvian people that they can feel safe. The majority of Latvians are convinced that national security of Latvia is safeguarded by NATO.

Speaker Mūrniece stated on behalf of the parliament that Latvia has done a lot to boost its defence capabilities and such investments have been supported by the people. Next year, Latvia plans to increase its military spending to meet the 2% of GDP benchmark. However, we cannot face today's security challenges alone.

NATO Secretary General welcomed the Latvian parliament's decision to increase the defence spending. It is important that such initiative has the support of a wide range of political forces represented in the Saeima.

Mūrniece and Stoltenberg agreed on the significance of the transatlantic links. The Speaker of the Saeima commended the United States of America for its consistent support and continued military presence in Europe, stressing that we attach equal importance to joining efforts in our fight against global terrorism.

They also discussed the need to strengthen the information space and improve strategic communications for countering disinformation campaigns that might occur after the arrival of NATO troops.

Speaker Mūrniece highlighted NATO's support for Ukraine and Georgia, both of which are valuable NATO partner countries.

Photos: https://www.flickr.com/photos/saeima/albums/72157685250604905
Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-FSaspf27HY
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Saeima Press Service