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"Statehood, its strength, is determined by our people. Above all, by those who care. For our fellow human beings, our nation, and our state. In big and small things. In their family, community, region, and state. By those with flaming hearts, patience, and a sense of purpose. Those who envision Latvia's future and are working to make it better", said Edvards Smiltēns, Speaker of the Saeima, at the Statehood Award ceremony on Monday, 21 August. Today, the Statehood Award, established by the association 4 May Declaration Club, was presented to Vilis Vītols, philanthropist, building contractor, and public figure.

The Speaker of the Saeima emphasised that these people are the backbone that creates confidence in the future of our country. "A plexus of nerves that makes the heart of the nation beat strong and healthy. Examples that fascinate, generate, and inspire ever more followers and doers. That build a safety net of cohesion and responsibility. That create statehood," said Smiltēns.

The Speaker of the Saeima thanked the 4 May Declaration Club and its President Velta Čebotarenoka for establishing this tradition, noting that 21 August, the day when the independence of the Republic of Latvia was de facto restored, is the right moment to recognise the value of our freedom, independence, and statehood and to honour those who have invested efforts, forces, and often their lifetimes in strengthening them.

The Statehood Award is given for a significant contribution to strengthening Latvia's statehood. It was first awarded on 21 August 2021 to Juris Rubenis, Lutheran clergyman and writer, and last year—to the late Knuts Skujenieks, poet, poetry translator, and journalist.

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Saeima Press Service